Stellantis(US:STLA) Prnewswire·2025-02-28 16:30Core Viewpoint - Tony Stewart Racing (TSR) is set to debut two new Direct Connection Dodge//SRT nitro-burning machines for the 2025 NHRA Mission Drag Racing season, with drivers Tony Stewart and Matt Hagan expressing excitement for the upcoming 20-race national tour starting at the NHRA Gatornationals from March 7-9 [1][2][3]. Group 1: Team and Driver Highlights - Tony Stewart, a NASCAR legend, will drive the TSR Direct Connection Dodge//SRT Top Fuel dragster, while Matt Hagan, a four-time NHRA World Champion, will pilot the TSR Direct Connection Dodge//SRT Hellcat Funny Car [4]. - Stewart aims to build on his rookie season performance, where he achieved two runner-up finishes and was named Pro Rookie Driver of the Year [5][8]. - Hagan's team has undergone crew changes, with Mike Knudsen as the new crew chief and Phil Shuler as co-crew chief, enhancing the team's potential for success in the 2025 season [9][11]. Group 2: Performance and Preparation - Early testing for Hagan's Funny Car has shown promising results, with a strong performance clocking at 3.820 seconds and reaching speeds of 330 mph [10]. - Stewart has expressed confidence going into the Gatornationals, feeling more relaxed with a year of experience under his belt compared to his rookie season [7]. - The Gatornationals will feature qualifying rounds on March 7 and 8, with final eliminations on March 9, showcasing the excitement of NHRA competition [12]. Group 3: Brand and Legacy - Dodge CEO Matt McAlear emphasized the brand's rich legacy in NHRA competition and the significance of having racing legends like Stewart and Hagan represent the Direct Connection Dodge//SRT brand [5]. - The Direct Connection portfolio offers high-performance products for Dodge vehicles, developed by SRT engineers and backed by a Mopar warranty [14]. - Dodge continues to innovate in the performance sector, with plans for electrified muscle cars, including the next-generation Dodge Charger [17][18].