By NATE VAN WAGNEN, KELLY WADE, MADELYN MARCONI, JESSICA HICKS SPEARS & MARY LENDZION
JUST OVER A DECADE AGO, Drag IllustrateD unveiled the first 30 Under 30 List to spotlight the young individuals driving drag racing forward. At a time when many claimed the sport was aging away, the inaugural list demonstrated just how many men and women under 30 were winning races, breaking records, building championship-caliber components, promoting events, and shaping the sport in countless impactful ways.
Since its debut in 2015, the 30 Under 30 List has highlighted a wide-ranging group of contributors: drivers, tuners, crew chiefs, crew members, track operators, series officials, manufacturer reps, engine builders, fabricators, media professionals, and others who play essential roles in the drag racing
ecosystem. Many honorees have gone on to win major championships – from NHRA Top Fuel to PDRA Pro Street – as well as regional titles and local track points battles. They’ ve become leaders, innovators, entrepreneurs, and recognizable voices within the sport.
The honorees on this year’ s 10th edition of the 30 Under 30 List carry that tradition forward. This class reflects the breadth of drag racing’ s many segments, showcasing a diverse mix of talented young people from across North America and beyond. These features aim to celebrate the individuals selected for the 2025 list, while also acknowledging the families, mentors, colleagues, and communities who shaped their journeys. Above all, we hope this issue inspires the next wave of future 30 Under 30 honorees. ➤ ➤ ➤
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