Norwalk, OH – Rising NHRA star Julie Nataas is heading into her second-ever Nitro Funny Car national event this weekend at the Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Nationals in Norwalk, Ohio. After a breakthrough debut in Bristol that saw her win her first round of competition, the 2023 NHRA Top Alcohol Dragster World Champion is eager to build on that momentum.
Piloting the Airmine Toyota GR Supra Funny Car for racing legend Del Worsham, Nataas became just the 15th woman in NHRA history to compete in the Nitro Funny Car category. Known for her dominance in the Top Alcohol ranks—with more than 20 national and regional wins—the Norwegian native is now proving she’s just as capable on drag racing’s biggest stage.
“Getting that first round win in my debut was incredible, but I’m even more motivated going into Norwalk,” said Nataas. “I’m learning something new every time I get in the racecar. In Bristol, my biggest struggle was just backing it up in the right spot, and Friday night’s Q2 was actually the first time I’ve ever really seen the finish line. We got my cockpit issues figured out, and I’m fully aware I’m not going to get away with .100 lights. I know how to chop the tree down, and I’m kind of expecting to be back on it this weekend now that I’m getting more comfortable.”
Nataas’ transition to Funny Car has already captured the attention of fans, fellow racers, and sponsors alike—not only for her fearless driving, but also for her authenticity on social media and her ability to represent both performance and lifestyle brands. In Bristol, she raced in front of sold-out grandstands and a national FS1 television audience. With Norwalk also expected to draw a massive crowd and top-tier coverage, the momentum behind her is only growing.
“This is such a competitive class, but I’ve got a great team around me,” said Nataas. “Driving for Del and being surrounded by so much experience and history makes every run feel like I’m building something important—not just for myself, but for the next generation too.”
While she doesn’t yet have a full-time schedule in Funny Car, Nataas is actively working behind the scenes to bring new partners into the sport and expand her racing calendar beyond Norwalk. With a focus on both performance and marketability, she’s uniquely positioned to bring fresh energy to the NHRA scene.
Fans can follow Nataas throughout the weekend on Instagram and Facebook, where she’ll be sharing exclusive behind-the-scenes content and highlights from Norwalk. The event will be televised on FS1, with live streaming available through NHRA.tv.
