The NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series returns to Route 66 Raceway near Chicago. The upcoming Gerber Collision & Glass NHRA Route 66 Nationals presented by PEAK Performance, set for May 15-18, marks this special anniversary at the popular stadium-style facility, promising a weekend packed with high-horsepower drama and championship implications.

Since NHRA action returned to the Joliet venue in 2023, it has quickly become a fan-favorite stop. Route 66 Raceway holds a significant place in NHRA history. It’s where John Force famously captured his 86th career Funny Car win back in 2000, surpassing Bob Glidden to become NHRA’s all-time winningest driver at that time.

It also witnessed Erica Enders score her very first Pro Stock victory in 2012, launching a career that now includes six world titles and status as the winningest female in motorsports. Legends like Tony Schumacher, Jeg Coughlin, Tony Pedregon, and Kenny Bernstein have also claimed victories on this celebrated quarter-mile.

This year’s event, the sixth stop on the 20-race 2025 NHRA schedule, brings intense current-season battles to the historic track. In Top Fuel, points leader Shawn Langdon looks to continue his hot streak against challengers like Las Vegas winner Tony Stewart and defending Route 66 winner and reigning world champion Antron Brown.

Funny Car promises fireworks with current points leader Austin Prock facing off against formidable foes, including defending event winner Matt Hagan, and teammate Jack Beckman. Pro Stock Motorcycle action also returns, featuring points leader Matt Smith trying to hold off reigning world champ and defending event winner Gaige Herrera.

Adding to the excitement is the Mission #2Fast2Tasty NHRA Challenge on Saturday, where semifinalists from the previous Charlotte event will rematch for bonus points and cash. Fans can also enjoy a full slate of sportsman racing action across various classes, including the Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series, Pro Mod, Factory Stock Showdown, and more. Beyond the track, the Nitro Alley Stage offers fan engagement with Nitro School sessions and driver autograph opportunities alongside the popular SealMaster Track Walk before Sunday’s eliminations.

With four rounds of qualifying scheduled across Friday and Saturday, leading into Sunday’s elimination battles, the 25th-anniversary Gerber Collision & Glass NHRA Route 66 Nationals is set to add another chapter to the track’s storied history. Expect incredible 330-mph speeds and pivotal moments as drivers fight for glory at this milestone Chicago event, with final eliminations broadcast live on FS1 starting at 2:00 p.m. ET on Sunday, May 18.