Tim Lewis, longtime NHRA Top Fuel co-owner and beloved team leader of Foley Lewis Racing, has passed away. The team confirmed Monday afternoon through a statement shared on social media.
Lewis, a respected businessman, first crossed paths with Doug Foley at Foley’s drag racing school in the late 1990s. Their initial meeting sparked a nearly three-decade-long partnership and friendship. Together, Lewis and Foley built Foley Lewis Racing into a competitive force, initially in Alcohol Dragster competition before stepping up to the Top Fuel category in 2004.
Doug Foley, co-owner and driver, reflected fondly on their remarkable journey:
“We travelled the country in our motorhome like we belonged in this class. We won, we lost, but most importantly, we always laughed. Tim had a great personality and didn’t take life too seriously. He taught me to dream big, and he literally changed mine, Shelagh’s and the boys’ lives in so many ways, and for that we will always be grateful.”
Lewis was known not only for his business acumen but also for his enthusiasm and supportive nature, always encouraging Foley’s visions, whether related to racing, business, or family. His absence this season had already been felt by the team, but his passing now leaves an even deeper void.
“The last race he attended was Charlotte in the fall, where we went to the finals,” Foley shared. “I now look at that weekend as a gift from God, knowing it was our last race together.”
Foley Lewis Racing has dedicated the upcoming season to Lewis, honoring his memory both on and off the track. His passion, humor, and friendship will be greatly missed throughout the racing community.
This story was originally published on March 18, 2025. 
The post Longtime NHRA Top Fuel Co-Owner Tim Lewis Passes Away first appeared on Drag Illustrated.
