Three-time NHRA champion Larry Dixon will return to Australia for the second time this year to race for Rapisarda Autosport International at 

Round Six of the Burson Auto Parts Australian Top Fuel Championship meeting at Sydney Dragway, May 5-6.

Dixon will race alongside RAI teammates Wayne Newby and Damien Harris.

Dixon’s previous appearance down under was at Round Four of the ATFC in January, where he defeated Newby in the B-Final.

“I really appreciate Santo and the Rapisarda family giving me the opportunity to race in Australia again,” said Dixon. “To run three cars is a remarkable achievement. His support for the sport is amazing. The last two times I've raced in Australia, I’ve finished runner-up in the B-Final and won a B-Final. I think it’s time I made it to an A-Final and hopefully take the win. That’s the plan.”

“To hand Santo the winner’s trophy at the end of the night would be awesome.”

The penultimate round of the 2022-2023 season is shaping up as a make-or-break meeting for the leading contenders. 

Series leader Harris, chasing his first Australian title since 2015, holds a 50-point lead over last-round winner Phil Read with reigning champion Peter Xiberras 30 points away in third place.

Newby, fourth in the points, goes into the meeting looking to claim his first win of the season, as do Phil Lamattina and teammate Shane Olive.