Brittany Force, one of the most dominant figures in drag racing, announced her retirement from NHRA competition in 2025 after 13 seasons. The 39-year-old racer revealed she is stepping away to focus on starting a family with her husband, Bobby, marking a new chapter in her life. This decision came after an illustrious career where she set multiple records and became a two-time NHRA Top Fuel World Champion.
Force’s retirement has resonated deeply within the racing community, highlighting her significant contribution as a leading female force in drag racing history.
Tracing the Rise of a Drag Racing Champion
Hailing from a renowned racing family, Brittany Force’s affinity for speed surfaced early. Her father, John Force, is a legendary 16-time NHRA champion whose career has significantly shaped the sport. Although Brittany initially was not eager to pursue racing beyond casual go-karting, her natural talent encouraged her father to support a professional racing path.
Her early career involved competing in the Super Comp and Top Alcohol classes before debuting in NHRA’s Top Fuel category in 2013. She quickly made an impact by winning the ‘Rookie of the Year’ title, signaling her arrival as a serious contender despite taking several years to clinch her first victory.
In 2016, Brittany Force achieved her breakthrough win at the Gatornationals in Gainesville, Florida, becoming the first woman to win a four-wide tour event. The following year, she secured her first Top Fuel World Championship, a feat not accomplished by a female driver since Shirley Muldowney in 1982. Over the next seasons, Force added multiple race wins to her record, including her fastest run of 3.623 seconds at Maple Grove Raceway in 2019.
Force’s remarkable performance includes holding nine of the ten fastest runs in NHRA Top Fuel history, with her second fastest clocking at 343.51 mph at Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park in September 2025. She captured her second world championship title in 2022, reinforcing her elite status in the sport.
A Career Marked by Records and Resilience
Force’s career milestones extend beyond titles. She has consistently displayed speed, precision, and determination throughout her tenure. Her ability to break records and push the boundaries of drag racing performance has often placed her among the sport’s fastest drivers. Fans and competitors alike have praised her skill and resilience on the track.
Her successes have contributed to increasing visibility for women in motorsports, challenging long-standing male dominance and inspiring a new generation of racers. Force’s presence has been a vital element in the evolution of drag racing, both athletically and culturally.
Reflections on Retirement and Future Aspirations
Brittany Force’s announcement was emotional and heartfelt. She expressed gratitude toward her supporters and emphasized the difficult choice to step away from racing at the height of her abilities. Addressing her fans and the NHRA community, she said,
“After dedicating the last 13 years of my life to the NHRA and to John Force Racing, I have made the difficult and bittersweet decision to step out of the seat of my Top Fuel Dragster at the end of the season to try to start a family with my husband Bobby.” — Brittany Force, NHRA Driver
The official statement from John Force Racing echoed her sentiments, highlighting her achievements and announcing her retirement from full-time competition at the conclusion of the 2025 season.
“Two-time NHRA Top Fuel Champion and the quickest and fastest driver in NHRA history, Brittany Force, announced today that she will step away from fulltime competition at the conclusion of the 2025 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series to focus on starting a family.” — John Force Racing, Official Statement
John Force, her father, shared his pride and emotional response to Brittany’s decision, acknowledging her accomplishments and ongoing competitive spirit.
“I’m really proud of Brittany and all she has accomplished throughout her career. She’s won races, set countless records, and captured two World Championships; her presence in this sport will be greatly missed. Although she’s stepping out of the seat at the end of the year, her focus is still firmly set on winning the championship.” — John Force, NHRA Champion and Racing Legend
Legacy and What Comes Next for Brittany Force
Brittany Force’s retirement closes a significant chapter in NHRA history, as she stands among the greatest female drivers the sport has ever seen. Her contributions have not only been measured by wins and records but also by the barriers she broke for women in motorsport.
While she prepares to embrace family life, there remains a possibility she may add further accolades before stepping away entirely. Regardless, Force’s impact will continue to inspire future racers who aspire to compete at the highest levels in a traditionally male-dominated arena.
Her career serves as a testament to passion, perseverance, and excellence in drag racing, securing her place in the annals of NHRA and motorsport history.
