After five years leading his own NHRA Top Fuel team and investing $22 million, Josh Hart accepted an opportunity in 2023 to join John Force Racing, replacing Brittany Force in the team’s Top Fuel entry. The move was initiated during discussions in August at Brainerd, Minnesota, and solidified over the Labor Day weekend at the U.S. Nationals in Indianapolis, where John Force assured Hart,
“Your contract will be on your desk when you get home.”
A Record-Setting Start at the Amalie Motor Oil NHRA Gatornationals
Hart and his wife, entrepreneurs who own several businesses including Burnyzz American Classic Horsepower in Ocala, Florida, chose to sell their Top Fuel team and become part of John Force Racing. Their decision paid immediate dividends during the NHRA’s 75th anniversary season opener at Gainesville Raceway. In his first outing with the team, Hart set a new track speed record of 340.3 mph, earned the No. 1 qualifying position, and captured his third career win by defeating reigning NHRA Top Fuel champion Doug Kalitta with a 3.733 to 3.877-second run at 337.83 mph.
Hart Reflects on a Remarkable Weekend and New Team Dynamics
Holding the Wally trophy, Hart described the weekend as extraordinary:
“We crushed all of our first quarter priority goals, all in one weekend. It’s been absolutely epic.”
He emphasized the significance of driving for a legend like John Force and recalled the semifinals as his proof of skill:
“(The) semifinals (Sunday) was me proving that I can still drive… pedaling it without banging the blower and making sure I got it down the track without really hurting the car. That’s the confidence.”
Balancing Business and Racing Led to Strategic Changes
Since launching Burnyzz American Classic Horsepower in 2010 with just $300, Hart and his wife have managed multiple enterprises, with their speed shop and drag racing team being the most successful. However, Hart recognized that juggling business responsibilities took focus away from racing. Selling his team enabled him to prioritize performance without handling operational duties. He noted:
Image of: Josh Hart
“Owning a team was awesome. It’s one of those things where you’re super proud that you did it. I’m very proud of what we accomplished, but I also realized that I wasn’t doing it at number one capacity. To be able to focus on just win lights, reaction times, not worry about invoices and payroll and all the things that come along with owning your own team is just something that’s priceless.”
Reflecting on Challenges and Preparing for Future Success
Hart admitted that his journey included tough decisions:
“I would say that I tried all the wrong roads.”
He described how adversity shaped his perspective:
“In my business life, everything I’ve ever been scared of has already happened to me. You just realize how quickly the road can be yanked out from underneath you, and when you live your life that way, you appreciate everything.”
The transition to John Force Racing involved a careful process to conclude his previous team:
“I started paying attention to closing my team down with dignity, making sure everybody landed where they wanted to land. Then I had the off-season to think about it, really clear my head to prepare. I lost 15 pounds. I’ll get more comfortable, and we’ll win more races.”
Impact of Hart’s Move on John Force Racing and NHRA Competition
Hart’s integration into John Force Racing introduces fresh energy as the team enters a new phase following a 16-time NHRA Funny Car champion’s leadership. His victory at the NHRA Gatornationals on his home track signals a promising start for both Hart and the organization. Taking over Brittany Force’s position, Hart is now positioned among the sport’s elite competitors, including rivals like Doug Kalitta. This win also marks a significant milestone for Hart personally, ending a two-year win drought. His achievements highlight the importance of strategic alignment and dedicated focus in drag racing’s highly competitive environment.
Looking Ahead: What This Means for Josh Hart and John Force Racing
Josh Hart’s impressive debut has set expectations high for the remainder of the season. His ability to deliver results early with John Force Racing not only reinforces his talent but also validates the difficult decision to sell his own team and fully commit to racing. With greater support and fewer off-track distractions, Hart is poised for further success. As the NHRA season progresses, his performances will be closely watched by fans and competitors alike, offering insight into how new leadership and team changes can reshape the sport’s landscape.
