ON THE SIDELINES
The NHRA Mello Yello Drag Racing Series had to navigate the season without two of its most popular drivers.
Eight-time Top Fuel champion Tony Schumacher was forced to the sidelines when Don Schumacher Racing could not secure a replacement sponsor for the U.S. Army, which left the sport after nearly 20 years.
Also missing was Courtney Force, the winningest female Funny Car driver.
“I will be stepping away from my driving duties, effective immediately,” Force said prior to the season opener. “This was a personal choice as I feel I’m ready to see what the next chapter in my life has in store for me.”
Fortunately for the NHRA, Force’s 70-year-old father, John Force, filled a portion of the void as he recorded his 150th Funny Car victory, won the U.S. Nationals and contended for the championship.