Quiet confidence. Unwavering focus. Ice in his veins. These traits define Aaron Stanfield as he prepares for the biggest weekend of his career at the In-N-Out Burger NHRA Finals. Sitting atop the Pro Stock standings, Stanfield is poised to capture his first NHRA championship, and he’s doing it his way: calm, collected, and ruthlessly efficient.
“I’ve been in pressure situations before,” Stanfield said during the NHRA press conference. “But this is different. It’s going to come down to the wire, and I’m looking forward to it.”
Stanfield’s demeanor might be understated, but his performance speaks volumes. With six wins this season, he has showcased not only raw driving talent but also a deep mechanical understanding of his Pro Stock car. It’s no surprise, given his lineage. The Stanfield family’s roots run deep in drag racing, with a storied history in engine building and professional competition.
Aaron Stanfield, driver of the Johnson’s Horsepowered Garage / Melling Performance / Janac Brothers Racing Pro Stock car, is a vital part of Oklahoma’s Elite Motorsports—the largest and arguably most formidable team in professional drag racing. With its tight-knit, precision-focused operation, Elite Motorsports has provided Stanfield with a rock-solid foundation. His calm, methodical approach perfectly complements the high-caliber team and loyal sponsors that have propelled him to the top of the standings.
“I grew up around this stuff,” he said. “The lessons I’ve learned from my dad and my family have been invaluable. It’s about sticking to the process, controlling what you can, and letting the results take care of themselves.”
That process has been a hallmark of Stanfield’s season. While others might let the magnitude of a championship battle rattle their routines, Stanfield remains unshaken.
“It’s all about staying in my lane, both literally and figuratively,” he said with a smile. “You can’t get caught up in what’s going on around you. Focus on the task at hand, and everything else will fall into place.”
Stanfield’s unique combination of driving skill and technical acumen sets him apart in a sport often dominated by specialists. He understands every inch of his Pro Stock car, a trait that has earned him respect from fans and peers alike. Yet, he’s quick to point out that racing is a team effort.
“I couldn’t do this without my team,” he said. “We win and lose together. I’m lucky to have such a great group of people in my corner.”
Despite his success, Stanfield remains grounded, a testament to his character and upbringing. He’s acutely aware of the challenge ahead, with fierce competitors like Dallas Glenn and Greg Anderson ready to pounce. But he’s not one to dwell on the pressure.
“I’m excited for the challenge,” he said. “This is what we work for all year. It’s going to be a fight, but I wouldn’t want it any other way.”
In a sport that thrives on high-octane drama and larger-than-life personalities, Aaron Stanfield’s quiet intensity is a refreshing contrast. He doesn’t need to make noise to make an impact. His actions on the track—and his precision off it—do all the talking.
Come Sunday, the Pro Stock world might just have a new champion. If it’s Stanfield, it will be the result of meticulous preparation, steely determination, and an unrelenting drive to be the best.
This story was originally published on November 13, 2024. 
