LEAH PRUETT Returns to Top Fuel with Runner-Up Finish, Eyes Pomona Win

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April 9, 2026

GRRL! SUMMARY:

LEAH PRUETT returns from maternity leave sitting fourth in Top Fuel standings with runner-up finish at Arizona Nationals. The Redlands native brings 14 laps of experience into her hometown Pomona track, feeling more prepared than any previous Winternationals.
PRUETT carries unfinished business from 2023 NHRA Finals at Pomona, where she lost championship by one round. Now competing in #2Fast2Tasty Challenge for bonus points, she emphasizes real-seat time over simulator work for competitive sharpness.
Tony Stewart Racing shows early-season strength across both Nitro categories. Four-time champion Matt Hagan sits fifth in Funny Car points with consistent qualifying, leveraging Pomona’s historical significance where he’s won multiple times and secured championships.

Lucas Oil NHRA Winternationals – Qualifying Friday 1:30 p.m. and 4:00 p.m., Saturday 12:30 p.m. and 3:00 p.m., Eliminations Sunday 11:00 a.m. at In-N-Out Burger Pomona Dragstrip
Mission Foods #2Fast2Tasty Challenge – Saturday bonus event for additional championship points at Pomona