Shawn Langdon Achieves Historic Victory at NHRA Great Lakes Nationals

Historic Day at the NHRA Great Lakes Nationals

On September 21, 2026, Shawn Langdon solidified his dominance in the NHRA world by achieving an unparalleled speed record and clinching victory at the Dodge NHRA Great Lakes Nationals, which took place at U.S. 131 Motorsports Park in Martin, Michigan.

Langdon, currently the Top Fuel points leader, stunned spectators and competitors alike with a remarkable run that clocked in at a staggering 3.664 seconds at 346.15 mph. He faced Spencer Massey in the final round, showcasing his unmatched skill and the high performance capabilities of his Kalitta Air dragster. This incredible performance contributed to Langdon securing his sixth win of the 2026 season.

What made this day especially historic was Langdon’s semi-final run, where he shattered existing records by executing a pass times of 3.663 seconds at an astonishing 346.95 mph, marking the fastest run in NHRA history. This unprecedented achievement surpassed his own record from earlier in the year, proving that Langdon is on fire this racing season.

In just one day, Langdon recorded four runs of over 342 mph, demonstrating the sheer speed and precision that has become emblematic of his team’s efforts throughout the racing season. He expressed gratitude for his team, particularly praising crew chief Brian Husen for making strategic decisions that allowed them to achieve such high speeds. “It just goes to show it takes everything. You have a track like U.S. 131 that takes a lot of pride in their facility,” stated Langdon, emphasizing the collaboration between driver, crew, and the excellent racing conditions at the track.

Other notable performances at the event included Jordan Vandergriff of John Force Racing, who, despite qualifying last, surged to second place in the points standing by winning the Funny Car category, defeating points leader Matt Hagan. Vandergriff finished with a run of 3.858 seconds at 329.43 mph. This was his third victory of the season, and it underscored the unpredictability and competitiveness of NHRA racing.

In the Pro Stock category, Troy Coughlin Jr. celebrated a long-awaited return to the winner’s circle after 41 races with a time of 6.515 seconds at 209.69 mph. This marked his first win since 2024, and it reflected a highly competitive spirit in Pro Stock racing.

Meanwhile, in the Pro Stock Motorcycle category, John Hall grabbed his first victory of the season, edging past first-time finalist Marc Ingwersen with a time of 6.808 seconds at 194.22 mph.

This event was not only exciting for the competitors, but it also marked the first of six races in the Countdown to the Championship playoffs. As the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series continues its season, the next exciting stop will be the NHRA Nationals at The Rock at Rockingham Dragway, North Carolina, from Friday to Sunday.

As anticipation builds for the upcoming races, the NHRA community celebrates Langdon’s extraordinary performance and looks forward to more thrilling races ahead.