The Texas Motorplex today announced John Force, Hall of Fame Funny Car driver, TJ Bailey, Motorplex track specialist and Joe Luebano, long-time Motorplex creative artist have been named Texas Motorplex Legends in advance of the 2025 NHRA Texas Fall Nationals. The trio have made significant impacts at Texas Motorplex and across the drag racing landscape both on and off the track for decades.
“Recognizing John, TJ and Joe as Texas Motorplex Legends almost doesn’t feel like enough to celebrate and recognize their impact on the track and our racing family” said Christie Meyer Johnson, Texas Motorplex co-owner. “John has done it all when it comes to racing but his generosity with the fans and sponsors sets him apart even more. We lost Joe and TJ earlier this year and the hole they have left in our hearts is slowly healing. They are with us in spirit every day and this year’s Legends award is a true testament to their contributions to Texas Motorplex.”
John Force is the winningest driver in NHRA history and the winningest driver at the Texas Motorplex with seven Funny Car victories, including a sweep of both national events in 2000. The legendary driver from Yorba Linda, California, raced against Texas Motorplex founder Billy Meyer and was a major part in the success of Texas Motorplex in the 1990s as he dominated the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series.
TJ Bailey, one of the most respected track specialists in the country, tragically lost his life during the severe storms that swept through Ellis County in early March. Bailey’s impact on drag racing stretched far beyond Texas Motorplex. He was known for his tireless work on the starting line. He was respected nationwide for his expertise in track preparation and his dedication to drag racing.
Finally, Joe Luebano was the creative artist who painted the event starting line during the Texas Fall Nationals for almost four decades. His artistry extended beyond the track as his keen eye for detail and Texas flair made the fan experience unique for every Texas Motorplex national event. Luebano passed away suddenly earlier this year.
The Texas Motorplex Legends will be recognized and presented with their one-of-a-kind Legend spurs at separate ceremonies throughout the NHRA Texas Fall Nationals, October 8-12. For tickets to the Stampede of Speed or the NHRA Texas Fall Nationals visit www.stampedeofspeed.com.
This story was originally published on September 17, 2025.
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