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4w ago

Ron Capps Survives Fiery 230 mph Crash at NHRA Arizona Nationals

Advanced safety measures, inspired by past NHRA tragedies, credited with saving the Funny Car driver's life as his team prepares for the next race in Pomona.

Ron Capps, driver of the NAPA funny car waves to the fans during the NHRA Carolinas Nationals on September 20, 2009 at Zmax Dragway in Concord, North Carolina.
Ron Capps, driver of the #28, is interviewed by the media before the start of the Feed the Children Prelude to the Dream at Eldora Speedway on June 6, 2012 in Rossburg, Ohio.
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Overview

  • Ron Capps' Funny Car exploded at 230 mph during the Arizona Nationals, splitting in two and crashing into a wall, but he walked away uninjured.
  • Capps credited safety advancements, including those implemented after Eric Medlen's 2007 fatal crash and John Force's 2024 accident, for his survival.
  • The NHRA Safety Safari team and modern safety equipment, such as improved chassis and padding, were instrumental in protecting Capps during the crash.
  • The crash has reignited discussions about NHRA's claim to being the fastest motorsport, with Capps emphasizing both speed and safety in his post-crash remarks.
  • Capps' team is working to repair the car for the upcoming race in Pomona, California, while the NHRA community reflects on the importance of continued safety innovation.