What's Happening?
At the 2026 In-N-Out Burger NHRA Finals, Top Alcohol Dragster World Champion Julie Nataas and her crew surprised Del Worsham with a meticulously recreated 1996 Worsham & Fink Texas Stagecoach Funny Car. This tribute marks 30 years since the original car
closed a chapter in the Worsham family's racing history. The recreated Funny Car features the original colors, lettering, and names of the 1996 crew members, with the team also reproducing the crew shirts from that season. Del Worsham, a two-time world champion and one of only three drivers to win championships in both Top Fuel and Funny Car, was unaware of the surprise until shortly before the event. The timing coincides with NHRA's 75th anniversary season, where Worsham will be recognized as one of the Top 75 Drivers in the organization's history.
Why It's Important?
This event holds significant importance for the NHRA community and drag racing history. It celebrates the legacy of Del Worsham and his family's contributions to the sport, highlighting the dedication and hard work that laid the foundation for his successful career. The tribute also underscores the deep-rooted traditions and personal connections within drag racing, where family operations and long-standing relationships are highly valued. For Julie Nataas, driving the tribute car represents a full-circle moment, as she attended her first NHRA race at Pomona 17 years ago and now returns as a Funny Car driver honoring her mentor. This event not only pays homage to the past but also showcases the continuity of talent and passion across generations in the sport.
What's Next?
Julie Nataas will be competing in the recreated 1996 Worsham & Fink Texas Stagecoach Funny Car at the 2026 In-N-Out Burger NHRA Finals. This event will serve as a significant platform for Nataas, who is in her second season of Nitro Funny Car racing and continues to gain experience in the demanding category. Her recent personal best in Las Vegas provides renewed confidence for the season finale. Concurrently, Del Worsham will be honored as one of the Top 75 Drivers in NHRA history during the event, further cementing his legacy. The weekend will be a blend of historical celebration and active competition, showcasing both the sport's rich past and its promising future with emerging talents like Nataas.
Beyond the Headlines
The tribute to Del Worsham and the return of the Texas Stagecoach Funny Car delve into the cultural and emotional fabric of drag racing. It highlights the profound sense of community and shared history that often defines niche sports. The meticulous recreation of the car and crew shirts speaks to a deep respect for heritage and the individuals who built the sport from the ground up. This event also serves as a powerful narrative of mentorship, with Nataas driving a car that honors the man who has become her guide. It illustrates how personal connections and the passing down of knowledge and passion are integral to the sport's enduring appeal, fostering a sense of continuity and belonging across generations of racers and fans.
