NHRA will extend its milestone momentum beyond its 75th anniversary season by honoring John Force with a yearlong “50 Years of Force” celebration during the 2027 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series. The tribute will recognize the most accomplished driver in series history at every national event stop.
The announcement positions 2027 as a continuation of NHRA’s broader historical focus, following a 2026 season built around the sanctioning body’s founding and legacy. Officials said the planning reflects the organization’s intent to link its institutional history with the drivers who shaped it.
Fans will be able to participate directly in the 2027 celebration through an onsite ticket renewal program during the 2026 season. Those who renew tickets at the track will receive a commemorative ring honoring Force’s 16 Funny Car world championships.
The incentive is designed to connect fans with the buildup to the 2027 season while acknowledging Force’s longevity and competitive record. NHRA officials emphasized that the renewal program will be available throughout the 20-race 2026 schedule.
“John Force is a true icon in motorsports and a name synonymous with NHRA Drag Racing, and celebrating ’50 Years of Force’ in 2027 will be a tribute to one of the most influential figures our sport has ever seen,” NHRA President Glen Cromwell said. “Coming off what’s going to be an absolutely huge year in 2026 with our 75th anniversary, we encourage all of our fans to renew their tickets for 2027 to be part of this unforgettable celebration.
“John’s passion, competitiveness and larger-than-life personality helped shape NHRA for the past five decades, captivating generations of fans. John has had a lasting impact on our sport and the entire racing community, and we can’t wait to follow up this milestone year in 2026 with a year-long tribute to him in 2027.”
Force announced earlier that he will retire at the conclusion of the 2025 season, bringing an end to a career that spans five decades. His departure closes one of the most successful competitive runs in motorsports history.
Over the course of his career, Force won 16 Funny Car world championships and recorded 157 national event victories. Both totals remain NHRA records.
He also holds the record for nearly 1,500 round wins, underscoring a level of sustained performance unmatched in the category. Force was named the No. 2 driver on NHRA’s Top 50 list in 2000 and has long been regarded as one of the sport’s most recognizable figures.
While Force’s driving career is ending, the organization he built continues to compete at the highest level. John Force Racing has captured 24 championships across multiple categories.
The team’s success has included championships won by Force and his daughters Ashley, Courtney and Brittany. Entering the 2026 season, the four-car Funny Car lineup includes Jack Beckman, Josh Hart, Alexis DeJoria and Jordan Vandergriff.
NHRA officials said the 2026 season will serve as a yearlong runway toward the 2027 tribute, with fan engagement opportunities built into each event. The 2027 schedule will then shift fully into honoring Force’s career, influence and role in shaping modern Funny Car competition.
“John’s passion, competitiveness and larger-than-life personality helped shape NHRA for the past five decades, captivating generations of fans,” Cromwell said.
