Jim Campbell will drive the Jim Dunn Racing Funny Car this weekend at the Lucas Oil NHRA Nationals, stepping in for Buddy Hull as he continues to recover from a hand injury.
Team officials said the decision was made out of caution, as Hull’s left hand has not fully healed following an on-track incident two weeks ago in Sonoma.
“Everyone at Jim Dunn Racing is expecting a speedy recovery for Buddy,” said Jon Dunn. “Buddy has been doing everything in his power to get back into the race car, but we just ran out of time. We appreciate Jim Campbell being available on short notice to drive the Jim Dunn Racing Funny Car this weekend at the Lucas Oil Nationals.”
Campbell, a veteran of the Funny Car ranks, will earn points toward Hull’s standings under the NHRA’s medical replacement driver policy.
Hull arrived in Brainerd on Thursday and participated in a fan meet-and-greet at a local Menards store alongside team owner and Hall of Fame crew chief Jim Dunn.
“Being able to spend time with Jim and the fans last night was a boost to my spirit,” Hull said. “I want to get back to racing so bad. My hand is getting better but it isn’t quite there yet. I know I was pushing the timeline to get back on the racetrack and I was really looking for a miracle. I’ll be at the track on Friday talking with Hannah (Rickards) and the fans so definitely come by the Jim Dunn Racing pits and say hello.”
Hull is scheduled to make an appearance on the NHRA Stage with emcee Jason Logan at 1:30 p.m. Friday. He will also provide commentary from the announcers’ booth during each nitro qualifying session throughout the weekend.
A former competitor in both Funny Car and Top Fuel, Hull’s perspective will be featured in NHRA’s live public address broadcasts during the event.
