CHARLOTTE (September 21, 2025) — While sidelined from competition as he continues to recover from a left-hand injury sustained at the DENSO Sonoma Nationals, NHRA Funny Car driver Buddy Hull stayed in the spotlight this weekend during the NHRA 4-Wide Carolina Nationals at zMAX Dragway, located just outside of Charlotte.
With Alex Laughlin filling in behind the wheel of the Jim Dunn Racing Blaze Exhaust Probes Funny Car, Hull focused on connecting with fans and supporting the legendary team during its 75th anniversary season.
“You can ask my wife, it’s tough for me to be at the track but not be the one who is driving,” said Hull. “But I still love showing up, supporting my team and finding ways to connect with fans and represent Jim Dunn Racing. This team has an incredible history, and I’m honored to be a part of it, even while my hand is healing up.”
Hull led a Life Lessons talk with NHRA announcer Jason Galvin on the NHRA stage, sharing his story of perseverance and the importance of chasing dreams despite setbacks. He also spent time in the Bruton Smith Suites, signing autographs, taking photos and engaging with NHRA fans throughout the weekend.
“Jason Galvin is a ton of fun to talk to, and you never know where the conversation will lead when we get together,” said Hull. “I just hope that I continue to be a positive presence within this sport, while I am working on my hand to be strong enough again to pilot a nitro Funny Car.”
After making two runs during qualifying, Laughlin entered race day in the No. 14 spot. In the first round, he was up against Austin Prock, Bob Tasca III and Hunter Green. While his 3.987 second, 318.24 mph pass was not enough for him to advance to the semifinals, it was the quickest pass that Jim Dunn Racing has made this season.
“I’m proud of Alex and the Jim Dunn Racing team continuing to make strides with the car in my absence,” said Hull. “Big Jim let me know that they had figured out a couple of ongoing issues with the car within the last week, so I was hopeful that would translate to visible on-track success. I hope we can keep moving in a positive direction, both with the car and my hand healing up.”
Following his time in Charlotte, Hull flew back to Texas, where he joined the C10’s in the Park Party on the Square in downtown Waxahachie. There, he helped promote the Texas Motorplex’s Stampede of Speed, which is coming up soon on October 3-12. Fans were able to get up close and personal with Hull’s wrapped Funny Car, drawing plenty of attention and excitement ahead of the upcoming Texas NHRA Fall Nationals.
“The Stampede of Speed is one of my favorite events of the year because it’s more than racing, it’s a full celebration of the sport, the community and the fans,” said Hull. “I can’t wait to get back to competing, but in the meantime, I’m going to keep spreading the word about NHRA drag racing and keep building momentum for my home track, the Texas Motorplex.”
Hull and Jim Dunn Racing will keep fans updated as they evaluate his medical status going into the NAPA Auto Parts NHRA Midwest Nationals on September 26-28 at World Wide Technology Raceway. For tickets or more information on the NHRA Midwest Nationals visit nhra.com.
