Ford Scaling Back NHRA Involvement

Ford Motor Co. plans to scale back its involvement in the NHRA Mello Yello Drag Racing Series beginning in 2015. After rumors circulated that the company was withdrawing from professional drag racing, Ford Racing issued a statement in an effort to help head off the distribution of inaccurate information.

In essence, Ford will end its sponsorship of teams competing in the series at the end of the 2014 campaign.

“Ford is not getting out of drag racing. We are fully committed to continue our support of grassroots sportsman drag racing with our Mustang Cobra Jet, parts support and contingency programs. Enthusiasts and production-based racing is at the heart of what we do," the statement read. “We have, however, made a business decision to conclude our team sponsorships and support in the NHRA Mello Yello Series at the end of the 2014 season. This decision was based on an ongoing assessment of our motorsport programs’ effectiveness and the strategic alignment with our company objectives globally."

The announcement primarily hampers the NHRA Funny Car efforts of John Force Racing, Tasca Racing and Tim Wilkerson Racing.