Ask anyone in the doorslammer drag racing world, and they’ll tell you it’s a golden era for Pro Mod. The cars are faster—and more consistent—than ever, and there’s a convergence of talent from virtually every corner of the sport. Few people have a closer, more hands-on perspective of this than Luis de Leon, the Chief Operating Officer at FuelTech, a company quickly becoming the go-to vehicle management solution for top-tier programs.
In light of FuelTech’s newly announced role as the Official Vehicle Management System of the Drag Illustrated Winter Series, we caught up with de Leon to discuss the partnership, the changing nature of the Pro Mod scene, and what’s driving the current surge in popularity.
“A Perfect Storm”
When asked to describe the current moment in doorslammer drag racing, de Leon points to a “perfect storm” of passion, technology, and opportunity.
“We have guys who’ve spent years fine-tuning their craft, fresh talent breaking in, and a central proving ground where everyone can test themselves against the best,” de Leon says. “It’s the perfect environment for innovation—and for fans, it’s lightning in a bottle.”
According to de Leon, the Drag Illustrated Winter Series capitalizes on this momentum by bringing in teams that might rarely face each other elsewhere—No Prep Kings racers, NHRA regulars, and rising independent stars looking for a shot.
The FuelTech Factor
So what exactly makes FuelTech different from other engine management companies? De Leon suggests it’s about more than just hardware and software; it’s about building a community.
“We don’t just sell a product. We want each racer to fully understand how to use it,” he says. “From real-time data analysis to traction control solutions, the goal is to help them go fast, go consistently, and come back ready for more. We love being at the track—sometimes even helping dial in a combination in real time.”
It’s a boots-on-the-ground approach that resonates deeply with racers. Whether it’s twin-turbo Pro Mods, mechanical or EFI supercharged combos, or nitrous-fed doorslammers, FuelTech prides itself on bridging gaps across every conceivable setup.
The Technology Behind the “Golden Era”
De Leon believes technology—and the willingness to share knowledge—has elevated Pro Mod racing to a new level.
“A decade or two ago, these cars were notoriously unpredictable. Very rarely did you see the kind of side-by-side racing we see today,” he notes. “Now, between advanced electronics, incredible torque converter technology, and the expertise of tuners, we see near-record runs back-to-back. The level of professionalism is unreal.”
He also points to the series’ diversity, noting that both top-level ‘hired gun’ drivers and grassroots racers benefit from FuelTech’s user-friendly interface and active support. Even older chassis are putting up big numbers with modern management solutions.
Synergy With Drag Illustrated
The partnership with the Drag Illustrated Winter Series grew out of mutual respect between FuelTech and DI’s founder, Wes Buck. Both share a vision of a “true proving ground” that unites top drivers and teams.
“What Wes and Drag Illustrated have built is special,” de Leon says. “They’ve created an environment where you can see an NHRA champion go head-to-head with a No Prep Kings star or a regional hero who’s been dominating on radials. For us, aligning with that energy just made sense.”
Looking Ahead
With FuelTech’s presence ramping up at the Winter Series, de Leon expects even more cross-pollination among racers who might otherwise never share the same dragstrip. He’s confident that Pro Mod—and doorslammer racing as a whole—is “far from peaking.”
“It’s not just the speed; it’s the stories,” he says. “We’re seeing top-level competition, real rivalries, and genuine camaraderie. We’re proud FuelTech can be a part of that, helping racers push the limits safely and consistently. It’s a golden era, and we’re just getting started.”
For more information on the DI Winter Series, visit www.thewinterseries.com. To livestream the U.S. Street Nationals, check out https://flosports.link/4eXM9oa.
This story was originally published on January 9, 2025. 
