NHRA

FTI Performance Returns as Sponsor of the ProMod Showdown at NHRA GatorNats

FTI Performance Returns as Sponsor of the ProMod Showdown at NHRA GatorNats

FTI Performance announces the return of the FTI Pro Mod Showdown during qualifying at the NHRA Gator Nationals March 6-8 at Gainesville Raceway.

Mar 3, 2026 by Courtney Enders
FTI Performance Returns as Sponsor of the ProMod Showdown at NHRA GatorNats

FTI Performance and Finish Line Consultants are proud to announce the return of the FTI Pro Mod Showdown during qualifying at the 57th Annual NHRA Gatornationals at legendary Gainesville Raceway, kicking off the 2026 NHRA Pro Mod season in thrilling fashion.

The FTI Pro Mod Showdown will once again reward the driver who records the best cumulative E.T. average across all four qualifying sessions. The winner will receive a $7,500 bonus from FTI Performance, adding another high-stakes incentive to an already competitive qualifying ladder.

“Supporting our customers and racers at FTI’s home track is something we look forward to every year,” said Krista Baldwin, Director of Marketing for the Wharton Automotive Group. “The Showdown creates a race within a race, pushing teams to maximize every qualifying pass and rewarding excellence right out of the gate. We’re excited to launch the 2026 season in Gainesville.”

FTI Performance owner and nitro Funny Car racer Paul Lee will present the $7,500 check to the Showdown winner during driver introductions on Sunday prior to eliminations.

Qualifying for the NHRA Pro Mod category will feature two sessions on Friday and two on Saturday, setting the field for eliminations. The FTI Pro Mod Showdown ensures that every qualifying run carries championship-level intensity from the first hit down the historic Gainesville quarter mile.

Debbie O’Rourke, Series Manager for the NHRA Pro Mod Series, emphasized the importance of programs like the Showdown in strengthening the class.

“Special awards like the FTI Showdown elevate the competition and reward the teams for precision and performance,” said O’Rourke. “Our racers thrive on opportunity, and programs like this add measurable value to the series. As we move into 2026, with expanded digital exposure, dedicated broadcast windows, and our continued Road to the Championship focus, we are building momentum that benefits racers, partners, and fans alike.”

The 2026 NHRA Pro Mod season begins at the historic Gatornationals, where the world’s quickest and fastest door cars will battle for early-season momentum — and the first FTI Pro Mod Showdown victory of the year.

For more information on the NHRA Pro Mod Drag Racing Series, visit www.nhrapromods.com.