The national average price of diesel has reached a record $6.05 per gallon—the first time it has ever crossed the $6 mark. That’s up from approximately $3.70 one year ago, according to reporting from the Associated Press.
Now the question is: How much will it affect fall racing?
For many racers, diesel is already one of the largest expenses of a race weekend. Pulling a loaded trailer hundreds of miles can now add several hundred dollars to the trip—and that’s before entry fees, race fuel, hotels and food.
Racers aren’t going to quit racing, but they may become more selective. Smaller events, distant tracks and back-to-back weekends could feel the biggest impact.
Fall is traditionally one of drag racing’s busiest seasons. We’re about to find out how badly racers still want to roll through those gates.
