It was nearly a perfect weekend for Brayden Davis in just his second career start in the Pro Stock Motorcycle ranks two weeks ago in Bristol. The only thing missing – an event win – is something he’d love to take care of in his third career NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series event, this weekend’s fifth annual American Rebel Light Virginia NHRA Nationals at Virginia Motorsports Park.
Riding the rental bike for the powerhouse Vance & Hines team, Davis made a strong impression in Bristol, taking the No. 1 qualifier with a terrific series of runs and then advancing to the semifinals.
His arrival on the Pro Stock Motorcycle scene was sudden, but it was definitely impactful and Davis hopes to continue that run of success this weekend in Richmond.
“When I joined the team, I knew I was going to have a good-running motorcycle and it was going to be up to me on how well I can ride,” Davis said. “The more passes I get, the more confident and comfortable I was able to get. Andrew (Hines, crew chief) and I have been working together really well. The guys on this team, they are definitely top-notch and the more data we get, the more dangerous we’ll be.”
Last season, Doug Kalitta (Top Fuel), Austin Prock (Funny Car) and Gaige Herrera (Pro Stock Motorcycle) all won in Richmond during the two-day event. This year’s event, which is the ninth of 20 races during the 2025 season in the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series, will be broadcast on FOX broadcast network and FS1, including eliminations coverage beginning at 4 p.m. ET on FOX on Sunday, June 22.
This weekend’s American Rebel Light Virginia NHRA Nationals will give teams a unique challenge with its two-day format featuring three qualifying sessions on Saturday and race day on Sunday. Davis will take part in the specialty race for the first time when he gets a semifinal rematch with teammate, back-to-back world champion and defending event winner Herrera.
The other matchup features Bristol winner Richard Gadson and Chase Van Sant. Davis would love a double-up weekend, but he’s thrilled to compete in a loaded class that also includes Matt Smith, Jianna Evaristo, Angie Smith and Steve Johnson.
Davis has quickly developed into a marquee talent in a brief time, but a simple approach has been key. The nerves haven’t gotten to him and Davis insists he’s enjoying every minute of this ride.
“I just go out here and ride the bike, and try not to over-think it,” Davis said. “I try to hit my shift points, cut a good reaction time and get it to the finish line. I like to have fun and engage with the fans, but when it’s time to race, it’s time to race. You’ve got to get locked in. I definitely think there’s a good season ahead of us.”
Former Top Fuel champion Kalitta won his second American Rebel Light Virginia NHRA Nationals last season over his teammate Shawn Langdon. The Kalitta Motorsports teammates have dominated the Mission #2Fast2Tasty this season, winning six of the seven Challenges this season. The other winner was motorsports legend and points leader Tony Stewart, thanks to his two wins on the season.
Prock, the reigning Funny Car champion, won his first Virginia NHRA Nationals over Bob Tasca III. Prock currently leads the points in 2025, while John Force Racing teammate Jack Beckman also has two wins this year. The loaded field also includes four-time world champ Matt Hagan, three-time champ Ron Capps and J.R. Todd.
Along with action in the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series, fans can also enjoy racing in the Congruity NHRA Pro Mod Drag Racing Series, NHRA Holley EFI Factory X and Pingel Top Fuel Motorcycle, providing a full weekend of non-stop entertainment.
Race fans aged 21 and older will have the chance to enjoy American Rebel Light – America’s Patriotic, God Fearing, Constitution Loving, National Anthem Singing, Stand Your Ground Beer – at the facility while taking in the incredible action on the track. Andy Ross, Chairman and CEO of American Rebel Beer and singer-songwriter, will also provide entertainment with a concert with his band during the jam-packed event.
All weekend, fans will be invited to the Nitro Alley Stage, which is the main entertainment hub in the pits. The stage hosts Nitro School, meet and greets, autograph sessions and more. Richmond race fans can enjoy the special pre-race ceremonies that introduce each driver and includes the fan favorite SealMaster Track Walk. Fans are also invited to congratulate the winners at the winner’s circle celebration on Sunday.
As always, fans get a pit pass to the most powerful and sensory-filled motorsports attraction on the planet. Fans can see their favorite teams in action and servicing their cars, get autographs and more. They can also visit NHRA’s Manufacturers Midway, where sponsors and vendors create an exciting atmosphere.
NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series qualifying roars into action with three rounds of qualifying on Saturday, June 21 at 11:30 a.m., 2 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. ET, leading into a can’t-miss raceday with eliminations beginning at 11 a.m. ET on Sunday, June 22. Television coverage includes qualifying action at 2 p.m. on Sunday on FS1, leading into eliminations on FOX at 4 p.m. ET on Sunday.
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