In a groundbreaking move for the world of motorsports, JCM Racing has announced that two exceptional female drivers, Alexis DeJoria and Ida Zetterström, will lead their two-car operation in 2025. This marks the first time an all-female nitro team will compete in the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series. DeJoria will drive the Bandero Premium Tequila Funny Car, while Zetterström will pilot the JCM Racing Top Fuel dragster. Both drivers bring impressive credentials and are poised to make history in the sport. The team aims to challenge traditional norms and showcase the capabilities of women in high-performance racing.

Trailblazing Women in Motorsports

The selection of DeJoria and Zetterström as JCM Racing's leading drivers signifies a significant milestone in the evolution of NHRA drag racing. With over a decade of experience, DeJoria has established herself as a formidable competitor in the Funny Car category, achieving multiple victories and breaking records. Meanwhile, Zetterström, a European champion on both two and four wheels, brings fresh talent and international acclaim to the team. Together, they represent a powerful duo ready to push boundaries and redefine success in the sport.

DeJoria's career highlights include her role as a former U.S. Nationals champion and being the first woman to record a three-second pass in a Funny Car. Her transition from Sportsman ranks to nitro-fueled competition in 2011 has been marked by consistent performance and six Funny Car wins. On the other hand, Zetterström boasts a unique background, having clinched the FIM Super Street Bike title in 2019 and 2020 before securing the 2023 FIA European Top Fuel crown. Both drivers have spent years honing their skills, climbing the ranks, and proving their mettle in various racing disciplines. Their combined expertise sets the stage for an exciting and competitive season ahead.

Preparation and Ambitions for the 2025 Season

JCM Racing is committed to providing its drivers with the best possible support to achieve their goals. Mike Neff, a renowned tuner with multiple championships under his belt, will oversee DeJoria's Bandero Funny Car. For Zetterström, Jon Schaffer continues as her crew chief, building on their successful debut at the 2024 Brainerd event. The team is focused on maximizing performance and consistency, aiming to secure more races for Zetterström and potentially expand her schedule throughout the season. Despite facing challenges during their initial collaboration, Zetterström and Schaffer are determined to capitalize on their potential and deliver outstanding results.

Both drivers express enthusiasm about their partnership and the opportunities ahead. DeJoria looks forward to working alongside Zetterström, noting their shared competitiveness and mutual motivation. She emphasizes the importance of consistency and winning races as key objectives for the upcoming season. Zetterström, reflecting on the abbreviated 2024 campaign, acknowledges the steep learning curve but remains optimistic about the future. She aims to prove the team's capabilities and hopes to secure full-season funding. The NHRA preseason test session at Gainesville Raceway on March 4-5 will offer the first glimpse of this dynamic duo in action, setting the stage for a thrilling start to the 2025 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series.