The Mercier Top Fuel Drag Racing team has partnered with renowned crew chief Rob Wendland for the upcoming NHRA Camping World Drag Racing season.
The relationship between Wendland and Mercier Racing began in 2017 when Wendland built the team’s first Top Fuel dragster. The partnership has continued to develop over the last five years, with Mercier pulling double-duty and racing in both the Top Alcohol dragster and Top Fuel dragster classes.
“For me, Top Fuel was always the unknown. It was important for me to continue the TAD program to make sure I continued my long-term passion. But this year, with Rob’s commitment in partnering with our team, we will put the A/Fuel car aside after Gainesville and focus on the Top Fuel dragster for 2023,” Mercier Racing stated in a press release.
The team plans on attending several match races that will serve as testing opportunities, continuing to build on the consistency and competitive performance that Wendland brings to the table. With only three appearances in Top Fuel last year, Mercier Racing ran career-best times under Wendland’s guidance.
“Dan (Mercier) has the passion and resources to have a top-10 team. I am excited for the opportunity to be a part of this team and share my experiences and knowledge to help develop the future of Mercier Racing,” Wendland said.
Wendland will be managing five team members, including Dan Mercier, Benoit Duquette, Alex Lanctot, Brent Lagace and Josh Scott.
With Wendland’s reputation in the forefront, Mercier knows he is setting his team up for success.
“Rob has had many notable successes in the past, including working with some of the best crew chiefs in the industry like Austin Coil, Brian Corradi, Mark Oswald to name a few. Having the ability to sign him on board is an exciting opportunity,” Mercier commented. “Now it is time to win some rounds. We have high hopes of developing a professional and well-respected team.”
Mercier Racing expects to attend the following eight NHRA races:
NHRA Four-Wide Nationals in Charlotte, N.C. (April 28-30)
NHRA New England Nationals in Epping, NH (June 2-4)
Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Nationals in Norwalk, OH (June 22-25)
Dodge Power Brokers NHRA US Nationals in Indianapolis, IN (Aug 30-Sept 4)
Pep Boys NHRA Nationals in Maple Grove, PA (Sept 14-17)
NHRA Carolina Nationals in Charlotte, NC (Sept 22-24)
NHRA Nevada Nationals in Las Vegas, NV (Oct 26-29)
In-N-Out Burger NHRA Finals in Pomona, CA (Nov 9-12)