Full Breakdown
NHRA Finals Canceled Due to Rain: A Season Concludes for Tony Stewart and Matt Hagan
11/18/2025, 10:55:00 PM
Unforeseen Weather Disrupts Championship Weekend
The 2025 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series concluded unexpectedly as relentless storms forced the cancellation of the In-N-Out Burger NHRA Finals at Pomona, California. The adverse weather conditions, which included record rainfall from November 14 to 16, rendered the racing surface unsafe, leading officials to call off the event before any pro cars could compete. Consequently, championship standings were finalized based on points accumulated prior to the event, leaving drivers and teams without the dramatic finish they had anticipated.
Tony Stewart's Season Overview
Tony Stewart, competing in his second full season in the Top Fuel class, finished fifth in the championship standings, 243 points behind champion Doug Kalitta. Stewart's season included two wins and the regular season championship, marking a significant improvement from previous years. Reflecting on the season, Stewart noted, “Every time that I want to be disappointed in how the Countdown went, I have to remind myself of what the goal was this year. It was literally to see the needle move in the right direction with the team.” He acknowledged the challenges posed by the weather, stating, “There is one thing that is undefeated in this world and that’s Mother Nature.”
Matt Hagan's Championship Bid
Matt Hagan, driving the TSR Direct Connection Dodge//SRT Funny Car, entered the Pomona event as a championship contender but ultimately finished second in the standings, 101 points behind Austin Prock. Hagan expressed disappointment over the cancellation, emphasizing the desire to compete for the title: “As a competitor, you want to run this thing out... Mother Nature didn’t give us that chance this weekend.” Despite the setback, Hagan's season was notable, with three wins and a strong performance under new crew chief Mike Knudsen.
Official Statements & Responses
Both Stewart and Hagan recognized the necessity of the NHRA's decision to cancel the event for safety reasons. Hagan remarked, “It was best for safety with the sand trap full of water... It just wasn’t meant to be.” Stewart echoed this sentiment, stating, “I don’t think you are going to hear anyone in the pit area get upset about this call. This is one that is out of our control.”
Looking Ahead: 2026 Season
As the 2025 season concludes, both Stewart and Hagan are optimistic about the future. Stewart will continue his Top Fuel career with Elite Motorsports, while Hagan's team aims to build on their successful season. Leah Pruett is set to return to the TSR Top Fuel car, adding further excitement for the upcoming 2026 NHRA season, which kicks off at the Gatornationals from March 6-8.
Conclusion: A Season of Growth
While the NHRA Finals ended in disappointment due to weather, the 2025 season showcased significant progress for both Tony Stewart and Matt Hagan. With a strong foundation laid this year, both drivers and their teams are poised for a competitive 2026 season, eager to capitalize on their experiences and achievements.
