Eight-time NHRA Top Fuel champion Tony Schumacher is set to make his much-anticipated 2025 season debut at the Cornwell Quality Tools NHRA U.S. Nationals, taking place at Lucas Oil Raceway Park in Indianapolis from August 29 to September 1. Schumacher will drive the No. 15 American Communications Construction Top Fuel dragster for Rick Ware Racing (RWR), marking his return to the sport after facing sponsorship challenges earlier this year.
Season Challenges and Partial Schedule for Schumacher
At 55 years old, Schumacher has found securing a full-season sponsor for 2025 to be difficult, limiting his participation to selected events. American Communications and Rick Ware Racing intend to back him for the U.S. Nationals and the final six races of the season. Schumacher aims to compete in a full NHRA Top Fuel schedule starting in 2026.
Schumacher Reflects on U.S. Nationals Return
Schumacher expressed excitement about his comeback at one of the season’s premier events, emphasizing the significance the race holds for him. During a test session at Virginia Motorsports Park in June, he shared his anticipation.
The U.S. Nationals has always been special to me, and I’m grateful for the chance to return to Indy with Rick Ware Racing and Texas-based American Communications Construction,
said Tony Schumacher.
I’ve been fortunate to experience some incredible moments at this event over the years, and getting back behind the wheel of a Top Fuel dragster at the ‘Big Go’ in front of the most passionate fans in all of motorsports means a lot. It’s the biggest race of the season, and I can’t wait to be a part of it.
Rick Ware Racing Strengthens Top Fuel Lineup with Schumacher
The addition of Schumacher enhances Rick Ware Racing’s competitiveness in the Top Fuel class. Clay Millican, the defending U.S. Nationals winner in Top Fuel for RWR, will be joined by Schumacher, who boasts ten victories at the U.S. Nationals, including his last win in 2016. This pairing positions RWR as a formidable force heading into the final stretch of the 2025 season.
Clay Millican Shares Enthusiasm for Team Expansion
Millican highlighted the importance of winning the U.S. Nationals and the value Schumacher brings to the team with his extensive experience.
Winning the U.S. Nationals last year was one of the proudest moments of my career,
Millican stated.
It’s the race every driver wants to win, and to go back to Indy as the defending champ is really special.
Having Tony Schumacher join the team makes it even better. He’s a part of NHRA history, and to have someone with his knowledge and experience is a huge asset. Two sets of inputs, two perspectives—it makes RWR stronger, and I’m excited for what we can accomplish together.
Millican Prepares for Upcoming Challenge at Brainerd
Before the return of Schumacher, Millican will compete at the Lucas Oil NHRA Nationals in Brainerd, Minnesota. Currently seventh in the Top Fuel standings, Millican aims to build momentum heading into the lineup where both he and Schumacher will represent Rick Ware Racing in Top Fuel.
Looking Ahead: Impact of Schumacher’s Return on NHRA Circuit
Schumacher’s return to competition not only revives his personal racing ambitions but also strengthens Rick Ware Racing’s presence in the NHRA Top Fuel category. With Schumacher set to race the last six events of 2025 and targeting a full campaign in 2026, the dynamics of the championship could shift significantly. Fans and competitors alike will watch closely as Schumacher seeks to add to his legacy in the sport’s most prestigious events.
