BRAINERD, Minn. (Aug. 13, 2025) – Top Fuel standout Justin Ashley and his SCAG Power Equipment Toyota Top Fuel dragster team are poised for a pivotal weekend at this weekend’s Lucas Oil NHRA Nationals at Brainerd International Raceway. As the defending champion, Ashley enters with momentum ready to vie for another Wally.
“Brainerd always marks the homestretch of the regular season. There’s only so many opportunities left to collect points before the playoffs begin,” Ashley said. “We are well aware of that but it’s not necessarily our priority. Instead, we’re focused on performance, and I believe if we do that, then the rest will follow.”
Coming off a standout 2024 season where he secured his first Brainerd win against Shawn Langdon, Ashley remains a top contender in the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series. With two wins already in 2025 (from Virginia and Ohio), he trails points leader Langdon by 111 as the series nears the Countdown to the Championship, NHRA’s six race playoffs. The Lucas Oil NHRA Nationals, the 13th of 20 events this season, offers a critical opportunity to fine-tune performance and build momentum.
“We’re coming off a win at Night Under Fire in Norwalk, Ohio and returning to Brainerd as the defending champions. Everything matters and for us continuing that momentum is critical,” said Ashley referring to the one-day specialty event held at Summit Motorsports Park. “All the races are tough, including this one, but our SCAG Toyota guys are ready for the challenge.”
The Brainerd event, known for its festive atmosphere and high-speed racing will also include the American Rebel Light Friday Night “Battle for the Rebel Axe,” offering a $4,000 bonus and a unique trophy to the top qualifier in Top Fuel.
The Lucas Oil NHRA Nationals at Brainerd International Raceway start with four qualifying sessions Friday at 4:30 and 6:45 p.m. and Saturday at noon and 2:30 p.m. with eliminations slated for Sunday at 10:30 a.m. Television coverage of the event will begin with qualifying shows Friday at 10 p.m. ET and Saturday at 7 p.m. ET FOX Sports 1 (FS1). Eliminations will air Sunday at 3 p.m. ET on FOX Broadcasting Network (FOX).
