Pawuk Debuts Dodge Charger Drag Pak at Gatornationals in Celebration of NHRA's 75th Anniversary

Mark Pawuk leads the debut of the Dodge Charger Hustle Stuff Drag Pak at the Gatornationals, opening the NHRA's 75th anniversary season with only 50 units produced.

Announcement Summary

Mark Pawuk, a three-time champion in the Factory Stock Showdown category, will drive the Dodge Charger Hustle Stuff Drag Pak for the first time, a competition version exclusively designed for racing, at the NHRA Gatornationals in Gainesville. The debut marks the start of the NHRA's 75th anniversary season, with only 50 units of the Drag Pak being produced.

The 2026 model, powered by a 354 cubic-inch HEMI V-8 engine, represents the first race-ready version of the new generation Charger. The Drag Pak was previously unveiled at the Nevada Nationals and symbolizes Dodge's latest official commitment to the Factory Stock Showdown.

About the Hustle Stuff Drag Pak

Each numbered unit receives NHRA approval for competition in the Factory Stock Showdown and is aimed at grassroots/amateur racers. Furthermore, the program signals the return of the Street and Racing Technology (SRT) division, responsible for high-performance models, Direct Connection parts, and Dodge's motorsport initiatives, including participation in the NHRA and Ram's return to the NASCAR Truck Series in 2026.

Who is Mark Pawuk

Hailing from Richfield, Ohio, Pawuk is one of Dodge's most visible figures in the sport. He won with the Dodge Challenger Mopar Drag Pak in 2024 and 2025, totaling four victories in that period. His 2025 campaign brought wins in Bristol and Norwalk, plus one runner-up finish and three semifinal appearances, cementing a season marked by consistency.

Pawuk reinforces the focus on the new Charger platform, highlighting that testing in Florida yielded valuable data, but acknowledging that adjustments will be necessary throughout the season. In his words, the debut at the Gatornationals carries personal significance: he started his career in the 1970s with Dodge/Plymouth and plans to conclude the cycle with the Drag Pak, aiming for a possible third championship in the new era.

Expectations for the Gatornationals and Beyond

In addition to Pawuk's race, the Gainesville weekend features a special "Legends" race exhibition with 550 hp Dodge Charger Scat Packs. Four celebrated drivers—Don Garlits, Joe Amato, Kenny Bernstein, and Warren Johnson—will participate in a special duel honoring the NHRA's 75th anniversary. The exhibition activities include specific rules and schedules already released for the first rounds and the grand finale.

Another attraction involves the Thrill Rides, an experience where fans can ride as passengers in Chargers Scat Packs equipped with the SIXPACK engine, driven by professionals on a closed course atop Gainesville Raceway, with daily operations throughout the weekend.

In the nitro category, Dodge will feature new paint schemes for Tony Stewart Racing, while Leah Pruett returns to Top Fuel and Matt Hagan seeks his fifth Funny Car title. Qualifying is scheduled for Friday at 2:30 PM (local time) and eliminations are on Sunday at 10:00 AM (daylight saving time).

Connections and Season Significance

For Pawuk, the focus remains on the first official driving rotation of the Charger Drag Pak. The driver sees the new platform as a continuation and, at the same time, a promising restart, with the goal of fighting for a third championship.

Call to the Community

What do you think the Hustle Stuff Drag Pak can deliver in the NHRA's 75th anniversary season? Leave your comment below and share your expectations for Pawuk and Dodge in this historic chapter of the sport.