The 2025 National Hot Rod Diesel Association (NHRDA) diesel drag racing season kicked off in high-octane style at Firebird Motorsports Park in Chandler, Arizona. Sponsored by Hot Shot’s Secret, the Desert Diesel Nationals roared to life on a newly resurfaced track, drawing diesel fans, racers, and show truck enthusiasts from across the country.

While Friday’s rain threw a wrench into qualifying rounds, the spirit of the event was anything but dampened. Saturday delivered action-packed racing, thundering jet engines, and a semi-truck show that stretched the length of the track—and then some.

Chrome, Lights, and Horsepower: Semi-Truck Show & Shine

Despite Friday’s weather setbacks, the Show & Shine for semi-trucks rolled on in full force. Over 250 rigs lined the grounds, showcasing everything from polished chrome and wild light setups to custom interiors and window-rattling stereo systems. These working-class heroes took a well-deserved break from hauling America’s freight to show off their rigs—and the crowd loved it.

The display stretched more than a quarter mile, with some spots packed two or three trucks deep. Hay haulers, tankers, long-haulers—you name it, they were there. Each one brought personality, performance, and a deep love for the diesel lifestyle.

Diesel Drag Racing Qualifying: Laying Down Rubber and Setting the Stage

Saturday began with opening ceremonies, followed by a full slate of qualifying rounds on the eighth-mile strip. The Sportsman class led the charge, with every driver getting at least two shots to dial in their machines ahead of eliminations.

While a few oil downs and debris delays tested the track crew, the energy stayed high. The crowd got treated to several exhibition runs, including a jet car pass that quite literally blew the dust off the track.

Diesel Drag Racing Eliminations: Smoke, Speed, and Showdowns

When it came time for eliminations, it was go hard or go home. Each class brought its A-game, with plenty of black smoke, boost, and bold moves.

In Pro Street, Phillip Franklin chased a personal best to open his season but came up just short—missing his goal by a few MPH.

The Sportsman class was a highlight of the weekend. It was the ultimate “daily driver to track warrior” moment—throw on some slicks, crank the tune, and let the turbo scream. This class showed how diesel enthusiasts live it both on the street and at the strip.

Jet Power: Wicked Sinsation Takes the Stage

The jet-powered Wicked Sinsation, driven by Scott Arriaga, was out to shatter the 300 MPH mark. While he didn’t quite hit the goal, Arriaga rocketed to 293.73 MPH in just 5.36 seconds. The raw thunder of the General Electric J85 jet engine electrified the crowd and made for a memorable finale to the racing program.

Author’s Picks: Diesel Builds That Stole the Show

As someone who lives and breathes diesel performance, a few builds stood out in the desert sun:

The Fodge – A 1931 Ford Model A with a heart of a 12-valve Cummins, owned by Larry Stawn.

This rat-rod diesel mashup is both nostalgic and beastly. Read more about it here.

Ricardo Fletes’ Chevelle SS – A Pro Street diesel that launches hard enough to lift the front wheels. Classic muscle meets modern diesel power—what’s not to love?

Wade Minter’s Pro Mod Corvette – A split-window Vette turned diesel drag monster. Minter hit 171.51 MPH in 4.454 seconds before a rear-end failure ended his run. Watch this one—he’s coming for the record next round.

Burnout Battle: Aussie-Inspired Mayhem

The night capped off with a burnout competition like no other. Think Australian-style burnouts—a wild blend of tire-shredding, engine-revving chaos and drifting fury. It’s not just a burnout in the box—it’s a full show of smoke, control, and raw diesel dominance.

Next Stop: Diesel Drag Racing in Tulsa, Oklahoma

If you missed the diesel drag racing action in Arizona, don’t worry—the NHRDA rolls on. The next event hits Tulsa Raceway Park on May 16–17. Can’t make it in person? Catch the live stream on Diesel TV, and check out NHRDA.com for all the details.

Want to see more from the Desert Diesel Nationals? Browse full photo galleries at Spinning Wheels Photography.