(Image/ESPN)
NHRA Funny Car driver Alexis DeJoria will retire from NHRA drag racing following the conclusion of the 2017 Mello Yello Drag Racing Series on November 12 in Pomona, CA.
DeJoria, 40, said she’s leaving NHRA racing in order to focus on her family.
“It’s one of the hardest decisions I’ve ever had to make and I will miss everyone so much. My reasoning behind this decision is simple. It’s time for me to switch my focus toward my family,” DeJoria said in a news release.
DeJoria drives the Tequila Patron-sponsored Toyota Camry funny car for Kalitta Motorsports.
DeJoria has earned five NHRA Wallys in her six-year Funny Car career, including winning the U.S. Nationals in Indianapolis, IN. She was the first female Funny Car driver to log a sub-four-second ET, and the first female driver to compete in 100 NHRA Funny Car races.
“I’m very proud that she’s taking the time to spend with her family,” said Jim Oberhofer, vice president of operations for Kalitta Motorsports. “I know very well how precious that time is and how easily it can get away from you. Alexis will always be a part of our Kalitta family and we wish her nothing but the best.”
DeJoria said she remains committed to competing as hard as possible in the final three races of her NHRA Funny Car career.
“We still have three races left,” said DeJoria, the only driver to have claimed a win in each of the Funny Car, Top Alcohol Funny Car, and Super Comp categories. “By no means is it over yet. We still have a fighting and winning attitude. I’ve got a great car and an excellent team.”
DeJoria’s next race will be this weekend at the AAA Texas NHRA FallNationals at Texas Motorplex, October 13-15.
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