Top Fuel racer Mike Salinas had always envisioned a day when his daughters would take over his racing passion and endeavors. Today, the vision became a forthcoming reality as Scrappers Racing announced that Jasmine Salinas, a graduate from the Top Alcohol Dragster ranks, will now take over the role as the team’s primary driver.
In a statement from the team, Mike Salinas will step back as the team’s No. 1 driver to focus on personal health matters. The transition will begin this weekend at the Lucas Oil NHRA Winternationals at In-N-Out Burger Pomona Dragstrip in Pomona, Calif., marking her debut in the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series.
“I’m very proud of Jasmine,” Mike Salinas said. “I look forward to returning to the driver’s seat once I am ready. Jasmine has got the best crew in drag racing, led by Rob Flynn, Arron Cave, Adem Cave and Troy Fasching. So there’s no doubt in my mind that this Scrappers Racing team is going to be a force at the track. They are just as confident in her as she is in them.”
The second-generation Salinas earned her Top Fuel license in 2023 with the intention of being part of a two-car team with her father in 2024.
“It’s an absolute mix of emotions as this was not how I wanted the opportunity to come about,” she said. “I’m incredibly grateful that my dad has entrusted me with the chance to step up into his place. I know that I have some big shoes to fill. My dad and his entire team have worked hard to make a name for themselves in this sport, and I want to make them all proud.”
