As the PRI Show buzzed with excitement, we had the chance to sit down with NHRA Top Fuel driver Josh Hart.
Known for his dedication on and off the track, Hart opened up about the challenges he faced last season and his plans for a comeback in 2025.
“Worst season in my career,” Hart admitted when asked about 2024. “It was pretty rough. We had used up all of our stuff that we were comfortable with, and we had to start replacing things with new items. The learning curve was just something we couldn’t get our hands on soon enough.”
For Hart, the struggle wasn’t just about performance—it was about managing the countless variables that have to align perfectly in the high-stakes world of drag racing.
“It’s hard. You have so many things that have to go right in order for success,” he said.
Despite the tough season, Hart remains optimistic. “It’s a delicate balance. You’re very grateful for your crew and everybody that works on the car. We just have to focus and do better.”
One significant change for Hart’s team is the shift from a hybrid crew—a mix of full-time and fly-in team members—to a more permanent and dedicated group.
“We’ve added more brainpower by bringing in Jason McCullouch, so we’re extremely blessed in that department. The parts situation has also caught up, so we’re going into 2025 with a clear perspective and ready to see what happens,” he added.
Hart also shared exciting news about his team’s sponsors. “We’re very proud of our relationship with R&L Carriers. TechNet’s on for at least one more year, and we are adding Snap-on this year,” he said. “We’re super blessed to be aligned with companies that we believe in and use in my day-to-day business, which is Burnyzz Speed Shop.”
Hart’s family plays an integral role in his racing career. “If I couldn’t have them there, I probably wouldn’t do it anymore,” he said. Hart shared a heartwarming story about watching his five-year-old daughter perform a solo at her dance recital the night before. “You realize that life is not about you anymore. It’s about them.”
His daughter’s presence at the track has become a cherished aspect of his racing life. “Drag racing is a family, and I’m proud to have my family be a part of it,” he said. When asked about her stealing the spotlight, Hart laughed. “Totally good with it. I’ll drive the car, hopefully, win the races, and then she can do the interviews. I’m good with it.”
With a refreshed team, strong partnerships, and his family by his side, Josh Hart is ready to tackle 2025 with renewed determination. As he puts it, “We’re extremely blessed, and we’re ready to see what happens.”
This story was originally published on December 19, 2024. 
