The Lucas Oil NHRA Nationals at Brainerd International Raceway will mark a long-awaited comeback for Jordan Vandergriff, who will strap back into a Top Fuel dragster for the first time in more than five years. Vandergriff has been tapped to drive the Reed Trucking & Excavating machine while team owner and driver Shawn Reed continues to recover from injuries sustained in a violent crash at the NHRA Northwest Nationals. Reed expects to be back in the cockpit by the first race of the Countdown to the Championship in September but will field a substitute driver for the final two regular-season Mission Foods Series events.
Reed, currently sitting 10th in the Top Fuel standings, is relying on Vandergriff to maintain that position through the U.S. Nationals to lock in a playoff berth. Points earned this weekend in Brainerd will count toward Reed’s total, making Vandergriff’s debut with the team a crucial outing.
For Vandergriff, the opportunity is both a homecoming and a challenge. He last competed full-time in 2019, making 11 appearances in Top Fuel and earning a career-best runner-up finish in Dallas. This weekend will be his first trip to Brainerd International Raceway, a venue known for its rabid fanbase and high-energy atmosphere.
“Finally! I’m finally back behind the wheel of a Top Fuel dragster and I couldn’t be happier,” Vandergriff said. “It has been over five years since I’ve last driven in competition, and I am feeling every possible emotion. The question I’ve been asked the most is ‘are you nervous?’ And my answer to that is, yes, of course. A little nervous but way more excited. Driving these Top Fuel cars can test your mentals to extreme levels, but the nerves are a good thing for me. Nerves fuel my focus. I feel like I have been preparing for this moment since I made my last pass in competition, and I intend to make the most of this opportunity.
“I am honored to work with Shawn Reed Racing this weekend. Rob Wendland, Ryan Elliott and the guys are professionals. They have this car ready to go quick and fast. We have spent the last few days getting me fitted in the race car and made some small adjustments to make me feel a little more comfortable. This will also be my first time racing in Brainerd. I love the racetrack and especially the fans out there. They are true NHRA fans, and I can’t wait to make my return in front of them.”
Reed, who remains deeply involved with the team despite being sidelined, is equally enthusiastic about the pairing.
“I’m really excited to get back up to Brainerd,” Reed said. “Even though I’m not able to drive my own car, I’m excited for Jordan; he’s got a great opportunity in front of him. I’m excited for him, the team, and what could be for Shawn Reed Racing at these next few events.”
With Vandergriff eager to prove himself and Reed focused on preserving his team’s championship hopes, the Brainerd race promises to be a pivotal chapter for Shawn Reed Racing as they look to lock in a Countdown spot and build momentum for the playoff stretch.
This story was originally published on August 13, 2025. 
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