NHRA - National Hot Rod Association

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Shawn Langdon is strong out of the gate in 2026

From winning the 1,000th Top Fuel race and beating all comers at the NHRA Arizona Nationals three years in a row to chasing the points lead in 2026, Langdon’s journey reflects his roots and spotlights his contribution to an era of dominance for Kalitta Motorsports.
15 Apr 2026
David Kennedy
Feature

After the 2026 Lucas Oil NHRA Winternationals in Pomona, Langdon sits just four points out of the Top Fuel lead, continuing a powerful early-season surge that included a win at the FMP NHRA Arizona Nationals presented by NGK Spark Plugs and strong qualifying performances in Gainesville. His consistency should prove to keep him in the championship conversation, while his teammate Doug Kalitta currently holds the No. 1 position, further underscoring what is clearly a dominant era for Kalitta Motorsports in Top Fuel. 

Langdon’s inclusion in the Top 75 Drivers list is rooted not just in statistics, but in defining moments. None stands taller than his victory in the 1,000th Top Fuel race in NHRA history. That win linked generations, with the trophy presented by Top Fuel's first winner, Don Garlits, placing Langdon squarely in that lineage.

Heard here speaking with NHRA on FOX's Brian Lohnes and Tony Pedregon during the Winternationals weekend, Langdon reflected on his performance with humility and gratitude. Despite championships and milestone victories, he remains deeply connected to his beginnings — still identifying with the kid who once raced Jr. Dragsters in Pomona.