Spencer Hyde’s short but impressive NHRA nitro career will take him to one of drag racing’s biggest exhibition stages later this month, as the 2025 Rookie of the Year is set to make his debut at the 49th annual Cornwell Tools Night Under Fire.
The Canadian Funny Car standout will compete July 31-Aug. 1 at Summit Motorsports Park, where he’ll drive Jim Head Racing’s Head Engineering and Construction Funny Car against a field that includes Jordan Vandergriff, Cruz Pedregon and Ron Capps.
For Hyde, the invitation marks another milestone in a season where he’s established himself as a race contender on a regular basis. It also puts him in the middle of one of the sport’s most recognizable independent events.
“The Funny Car line-up is a Who’s Who of tough drivers,” Hyde said. “You have two world champions and the newest Funny Car driver from John Force Racing. Anyone one of us could win this deal. I am excited to represent Canada, Jim Head Racing, Hyde Construction and everyone that supports our team. Next to winning an NHRA national event getting the King of Nitro title at Night Under Fire is right up there.”
Night Under Fire has built its reputation by blending high-level nitro competition with stadium-style entertainment. This year’s program will feature four Top Fuel dragsters and four Nitro Funny Cars competing for a guaranteed $430,000 purse.
The Funny Car winner will advance to face the Top Fuel champion in the event’s King of Nitro showdown, a matchup that has become one of the signature moments of the weekend.
Hyde said the event’s appeal stretches well beyond what happens between the guardwalls. The atmosphere, packed grandstands, and fireworks finale have made Night Under Fire a destination for racers and fans alike.
“The Bader family has made Night Under Fire one of the coolest drag racing events in the country,” Hyde said. “More than the Funny Cars and the Top Fuel dragster it’s the spectacle of racing and speed. I can’t wait to be a part of the show and I will be watching for sure when I am not racing. The fireworks show is worth the price of admission.”
Hyde’s addition strengthens an already formidable Funny Car lineup featuring veteran champions and rising talent. His first appearance gives fans another opportunity to watch one of NHRA’s fastest-rising stars compete in one of drag racing’s marquee summer events.
