John Force Racing just locked in its complete crew chief lineup for the NHRA’s historic 75th anniversary season. The legendary organization announced major moves on January 26, 2026. These changes shape how four drag racing teams compete when the season kicks off March 5-8 at Gainesville. The lineup reveals surprising continuity mixed with fresh talent in pit crews.
🔥 Quick Facts
- Announcement Date: January 26, 2026, just 2 months before season opener
- David Grubnic & John Collins: Continue as Top Fuel crew chiefs with new driver Josh Hart
- Jon Schaffer Departure: Veteran tuner leaves to lead Paul Lee Racing Funny Car program
- Season Details: 2026 marks 75th anniversary of NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series
Top Fuel Program Stays Strong with New Driver Pairing
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David Grubnic and John Collins remain the backbone of John Force Racing’s Top Fuel operation. These two veteran crew chiefs continue preparing the Top Fuel Dragster for the 2026 season. However, there’s a significant change. Josh Hart now pilots the machine, replacing the previous driver. Hart brings a new energy and partnership with Hart’s Burnyzz Speed Shop as a primary sponsor.
The continuity of experienced crew chiefs helps maintain consistency in a competitive class. Grubnic and Collins have proven track records in Top Fuel racing. Their stability offsets the driver change and gives the program strong foundation heading into March.
Funny Car Lineup Reflects Major Organizational Shifts
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The Funny Car side experienced more dramatic changes. Jon Schaffer, a longtime John Force Racing crew chief, departed to lead Paul Lee Racing’s Nitro Funny Car team as crew chief. Schaffer’s experience made him valuable across drag racing. Veteran tuner Jon Schaffer transitions to help Paul Lee’s program climb the NHRA ladder.
This creates opportunities for internal reorganization within John Force’s Funny Car structure. The organization fields multiple Funny Car entries with drivers like Jack Beckman, Alexis DeJoria, and Jordan Vandergriff. Each team needs dedicated crew chief expertise and focus.
2026 Crew Chief Structure for Four-Team Organization
| Category | Crew Chiefs | Driver |
| Top Fuel | David Grubnic, John Collins | Josh Hart |
| Funny Car #1 | TBA | Jack Beckman |
| Funny Car #2 | TBA | Alexis DeJoria |
| Funny Car #3 | TBA | Jordan Vandergriff |
2012 Funny Car World Champion Jack Beckman returns to full-time competition with John Force Racing. Alexis DeJoria, a two-time champion, joined in late 2025 on a multi-year contract. Jordan Vandergriff drives the Cornwell Tools Funny Car as the team’s fourth entry. All three require dedicated pit crew leadership.
How Austin Prock’s Departure Reshapes the Organization
Austin Prock’s exit to Tasca Racing removed a significant piece from last year’s lineup. The 2-time Funny Car champion and his entire crew moved as one unit. This changed the crew chief equation dramatically. Teams reorganized to fill the void and maintain competitive strength. John Force Racing absorbed driver losses but maintained organizational structure.
Thirteen crew members remained with the core organization, providing continuity. These technicians understand John Force Racing systems and culture. However, new crew chiefs needed assignment to manage the expanded four-car roster properly.
What Does This Crew Chief Shake-Up Mean for 2026 Competition?
Drag racing’s 2026 season promises intense competition. Crew chiefs will manage unprecedented challenges at the concrete-to-asphalt track transition. Power management becomes critical for success. Grubnic and Collins return proven winners. New crew chief assignments bring fresh perspectives. Will John Force Racing adapt quickly enough at the March 5-8 season opener?
“This is a great time to be part of John Force Racing and I’m more excited about getting to the starting line than I have been in years.”
— Statement from John Force Racing organization
Sources
- NHRA.com – Official NHRA confirmation of crew chief lineup for 2026 season
- John Force Racing – Direct announcement from organization blog
- Drag Illustrated – Coverage of Jon Schaffer’s move to Paul Lee Racing
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