The International Hot Rod Association (IHRA) is ready to make history as it brings nitromethane-burning action back to National Trail Raceway for the IHRA Nitro Outlaw Series on July 11–12, 2025.
Among the standout teams set to compete is none other than Team Nimrod, the reigning champions of the 2024 Nitro Chaos Tour. The team, led by driver Joey Haas and tuner Mike Kern, aims to claim the first IHRA nitro funny car win in nearly 20 years.
Joey Haas earned his first career championship this year in the Nitro Chaos series, a huge milestone for the veteran match racer. Haas brings with him years of experience across various drag racing categories, including alcohol funny cars, nostalgia top fuel, and NHRA top fuel. Notably, he reached the final round at the 2021 NHRA Mile-High Nationals, piloting Terry Totten’s Top Fuel dragster.
“Through Nitro Chaos, we feel we matured our program,” said Haas.
The team evolved from sporadic match racing appearances to a consistent, championship-winning program. Their performance focus includes minimizing part attrition and maximizing show quality, making them a perfect fit for the new IHRA series.
The two-day format (Friday afternoon and evening through Saturday) is key for Team Nimrod and other independent teams. The eight-car field and limited qualifying sessions create a sustainable, racer-friendly structure.
“The small teams are going to go where it works,” said Haas. “This is a good opportunity for us as a team.”
With many crew members balancing racing with full-time careers, this streamlined structure is not just appealing—it’s necessary.
While July 11–12 marks Haas’ first visit to National Trail Raceway, it’s not just about this one event. Haas sees potential in the revitalized IHRA, especially for underdog teams.
“There’s a lot of opportunity for the IHRA, and the NHRA needs competition,” he shared. “Hopefully, the IHRA will be the organization that actually listens to the racer.”
The Nimrod Funny Car will be flying the Nitro Chaos Championship livery, which also promotes Autism awareness in partnership with Horizon Behavioral Autism Center.
On July 11–12, 2025, all eyes will be on National Trail Raceway as Team Nimrod and Joey Haas fire up for what could be a landmark win in the new IHRA Nitro Outlaw Series.
This story was originally published on July 9, 2025. 
