NHRA has announced a new partnership with NAPA, naming the auto parts company the official presenting sponsor of the NHRA Youth and Education Services (YES) program. This initiative is the only full-time educational effort in motorsports, aimed at providing quality content and activities for schools and youth organizations nationwide.
“We are thrilled to expand our partnership with NHRA and become the ‘Official Auto Parts Store of NHRA,’” said Emily Schneider, Senior Director of Marketing at NAPA Auto Parts. “This multi-year agreement underscores our commitment to the sport and our dedication to supporting the next generation of automotive enthusiasts.”
NAPA plans to showcase how S.T.E.M. education applies to automotive careers as part of this program, attracting a new generation of technicians to its network of nearly 6,000 auto parts stores and over 16,000 auto care centers across the country. The partnership will also invite thousands of students to NHRA national events to explore career opportunities in motorsports.
The long-term partnership between NAPA and NHRA was announced at the PRI Show and will commence with the 2025 season in the Mission Foods Drag Racing Series.
NAPA boasts a long history in NHRA drag racing, having served as the primary sponsor for Ron Capps since 2008. Capps, a three-time world champion and 76-time event winner, will continue to represent NAPA as they strengthen their presence in NHRA racing.
NAPA’s Carlyle Tools brand will be featured in the midway at 15 races during the 2025 season, which kicks off from March 6-9 with the 56th annual NHRA Gatornationals at Gainesville Raceway. The popular auto parts brand will also be the official Auto Parts store of NHRA.
“It’s a huge thrill to add them as the ‘Official Auto Parts Store of NHRA,’” said NHRA Vice President and Chief Development Officer Brad Gerber. “We look forward to continuing to grow this relationship and seeing the impact they can have as part of our YES Program.”