Charlotte, NC – May 18, 2025
In a stunning development within the NHRA drag racing community, four-time Top Fuel world champion Steve Torrence has been suspended indefinitely following an on-track altercation during last weekend’s Four-Wide Nationals at zMAX Dragway.
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According to officials, Torrence was involved in a heated confrontation with a fellow driver at the top end of the track following a controversial semi-final round. Witnesses report that the altercation became physical, prompting NHRA security to intervene. The incident was captured on fan videos that quickly circulated across social media.
The NHRA issued a statement Sunday evening, confirming the suspension:
“Steve Torrence has been suspended indefinitely for violating the NHRA’s Code of Conduct. We take the safety and professionalism of our sport seriously and are conducting a full investigation into the incident.”
Torrence, known for his passionate and sometimes fiery demeanor, issued a brief statement through his team:
“I let my emotions get the best of me in the heat of competition. I respect the NHRA’s decision and will work with them to resolve this matter. I apologize to my fans, team, and sponsors.”
The suspension puts Torrence’s 2025 championship campaign in jeopardy. He was sitting third in the Top Fuel standings prior to the incident and had posted three final-round appearances this season.
Reaction across the paddock has been mixed, with some drivers calling for accountability, while others, including longtime rival Antron Brown, expressed empathy:
“We’re all competitors, and tempers flare,” Brown said. “But there’s a line, and unfortunately, Steve crossed it.”
No timeline has been set for Torrence’s return, but NHRA officials confirmed that additional disciplinary actions could follow based on the investigation’s outcome.
For now, Torrence’s Capco Contractors team will move forward with a replacement driver, as the Top Fuel season continues into its summer stretch.
