MADDI GORDON Earns Top Fuel License for Pro NHRA Debut at Gatornationals

February 26, 2026

• MADDI GORDON just earned her Top Fuel license and we’re here for this third-generation powerhouse stepping up to NHRA’s premier class. The Paso Robles driver hit 318 mph on her final licensing pass at Gainesville – her first time breaking 300 mph in the category – and she’ll debut professionally at next week’s Gatornationals with Ron Capps Motorsports behind the wheel of the Carlyle Tools dragster.
• This isn’t some random rookie getting handed a ride – GORDON comes from serious drag racing stock with her father Doug being a three-time NHRA champion in Top Alcohol Funny Car and her grandfather also competing in the sport. She’s been putting in the work too, building a home practice setup to rehearse starting procedures and studying in-car footage to prepare for handling 12,000 horsepower.
• What we love seeing is GORDON’s approach to learning from the best – she’s teamed up with three-time NHRA world champion Ron Capps and isn’t shy about asking questions to accelerate her learning curve. Her methodical preparation and willingness to lean on experienced mentors while pursuing her Rookie of the Year campaign shows exactly how serious competitors break into Top Fuel and succeed.

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