Night Under Fire 2025: 7 Explosive Reasons You Can't Miss Drag Racing's Biggest Show
The 48th Annual Cornwell Tools Night Under Fire is set to ignite the sky this August, promising to be the most explosive edition yet of "The Greatest Show In Drag Racing®." This legendary event, hosted at Summit Motorsports Park in Norwalk, Ohio, is far more than a simple drag race; it's a sensory spectacle that combines world-class racing with a theatrical pyrotechnic display. As of December 2025, the official dates and a star-studded lineup of NHRA legends and jet car titans have been confirmed, making this a must-attend event for any motorsports enthusiast looking for the freshest, high-octane entertainment.
The 2025 Night Under Fire is scheduled for August 1-2, 2025, and is already generating massive buzz for its sheer scale and the caliber of its featured performers. The event is known for drawing record crowds, and with the promise of a North American Jet Car Championship and an unparalleled Funny Car roster, fans are urged to secure their admission early to witness the spectacle up close.
The 2025 Lineup: A Roster of Drag Racing Royalty
The core draw of the Night Under Fire is its incredible roster of professional drivers, many of whom are NHRA legends and champions. The 2025 event will feature an intense battle of speed and fire, with multiple world-class vehicles thundering down the track. This list of confirmed stars ensures a weekend of unforgettable, side-by-side action.
NHRA Funny Car and Top Fuel Standouts
The event’s centerpiece is the elite field of Nitro Funny Cars and Top Fuel Dragsters. These 11,000-horsepower machines are the fastest accelerating vehicles on the planet, and the 2025 lineup includes some of the biggest names in the sport:
- Ron Capps: A multi-time NHRA Funny Car World Champion, Capps is a fan favorite known for his aggressive driving style.
- Daniel Wilkerson: Carrying on the family legacy, Daniel is one of the sport's rising stars in the Funny Car class.
- Cruz Pedregon: A two-time NHRA Funny Car World Champion, Pedregon brings veteran experience and a fierce competitive spirit.
- Dave Richards: Known for his consistent performance and dedication to the sport.
- Antron Brown: A decorated Top Fuel and former Pro Stock Motorcycle champion, Brown is one of the most versatile drivers in drag racing history.
- Justin Ashley: A young, dominant force in the Top Fuel class and a perennial contender for the championship.
The North American Jet Car Championship
Beyond the nitro-fueled professionals, the 48th Annual Night Under Fire will host a thrilling competition for the North American Jet Car Championship. These vehicles, powered by actual jet engines, are what truly give the event its "fire" namesake, leaving a trail of flames and smoke as they hurtle past 300 mph.
- Ernie Bogue: A veteran jet car pilot known for his precision and speed.
- Scott Holdridge: A formidable competitor in the 300-mph jet car category.
- Dawn Perdue: One of the fastest women in jet car racing, vying for the prestigious title.
- Neil Esposito: A top-tier driver known for pushing the limits of his jet-powered machine.
Why Night Under Fire is Drag Racing's Ultimate Spectacle
The Cornwell Tools Night Under Fire is not just a collection of races; it is an immersive, multi-sensory experience that has earned its reputation over nearly five decades. The event masterfully blends the raw power of motorsports with Hollywood-level production value, creating a unique atmosphere that captivates both hardcore drag racing fans and first-time attendees.
1. The Jet Truck and Top Fuel Motorcycles
The sheer diversity of the lineup is a major draw. Spectators will be treated to the incredible sight and sound of the massive Hayden Proffitt Jet Truck, a crowd favorite that lights up the track with its afterburner. Additionally, the Top Fuel Harley-Davidson Motorcycle riders, including fierce competitors like Ryan Peery, Jay Turner, Tii Tharpe, and Randal Andras, will showcase the terrifying speed and skill required to pilot a nitro-fueled bike.
2. The Massive Fireworks Display
A tradition that dates back decades, the event culminates in one of the largest and most spectacular fireworks displays in the Midwest. The pyrotechnics are perfectly synchronized with the final runs of the night, creating a breathtaking visual symphony that earns the event its name. This grand finale is the perfect capstone to a day of high-speed thrills.
3. Supporting Classes and Future Stars
The action isn't limited to the professionals. The 2025 schedule includes exciting support classes that showcase a wide range of racing talent. The Super Pro Bikes and the Summit Racing Equipment Junior Dragster Shootout ensure that the track is active all day long, highlighting both the current and future stars of the sport.
Essential Guide for Attending Night Under Fire 2025
Planning your trip to Summit Motorsports Park is crucial for a seamless experience. The event is one of the most highly-attended drag races in the world, and being prepared for the crowds and the schedule is essential. The two-day format of the 48th Annual event offers multiple opportunities to catch all the action.
Ticket Information and Pricing
Due to the event's popularity, tickets often sell out quickly, especially for prime seating. Fans should purchase their admission well in advance. While prices can vary based on the vendor and seating location, tickets for the 2025 Cornwell Tools Night Under Fire generally start around $43, with the average price hovering closer to $113 for preferred seating.
- Event Dates: Friday, August 1, 2025, and Saturday, August 2, 2025.
- Location: Summit Motorsports Park, Norwalk, Ohio.
- Where to Buy: Official track website and authorized ticket vendors like Tix.com and Vivid Seats.
The Full Experience: Pit Access and Atmosphere
One of the unique aspects of the Night Under Fire is the accessibility of the stars. Spectators typically have the opportunity to walk through the pits, meet the drivers like Ron Capps and Antron Brown, and get an up-close look at the powerful Funny Cars and Top Fuel machines. The atmosphere is electric, fueled by the anticipation of the evening runs when the jet cars and nitro vehicles truly light up the track. The event promises more than 60 of the world’s most exciting race vehicles, ensuring non-stop entertainment from morning until the final firework.
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