YORBA LINDA, CA — May 3, 2026 — The National Hot Rod Association (NHRA) community is in a state of deep mourning following the passing of Adria Hight at the age of 56. While the Force name is synonymous with victory and high-speed intensity, Adria was the steady hand and the loving heart that kept the family’s legendary racing empire grounded for decades.

1. The Heart of John Force Racing

Though she often preferred to stay out of the direct glare of the spotlight, Adria’s influence on John Force Racing (JFR) was immeasurable.

• The Chief Financial Officer: For years, she served as the CFO of JFR, navigating the complex business of professional racing with the same precision her father used on the track.

• The Matriarch of the Pits: To her sisters—Ashley, Courtney, and Brittany—Adria was a mentor and a protector. She watched them transform from young girls in the pits to world-class champions, always standing as their fiercest advocate.

2. A Bond Beyond the Track

Adria’s life was a testament to the “Racing Family” ideal. Her partnership with her husband, Robert Hight, was a cornerstone of the NHRA paddock. Together, they represented a union of passion, resilience, and a shared love for the sport that defined their lives.

• A Symbol of Resilience: Adria lived through the highest highs of championship wins and the terrifying lows of the accidents that come with the territory. Through it all, her “unbreakable spirit” was the anchor for her father, John, during his most challenging moments.

3. Tributes from the Drag Racing World

As news of her passing spread, tributes began to pour in from rivals, sponsors, and fans who recognized the void her absence would leave.

• NHRA Statement: “Adria was a beloved figure whose kindness was as legendary as her family name. The pits will feel a little emptier without her presence, but her legacy lives on in every JFR victory.”

• A Fan’s Perspective: Social media has been flooded with memories of Adria’s warmth, with many recalling how she always had time for a kind word or a smile, even in the high-pressure environment of race day.

4. Supporting the Force and Hight Families

The loss comes at a particularly emotional time for the family. The community is rallying around John Force, Robert Hight, and Adria’s sisters, offering a “wall of support” as they navigate this incredibly difficult chapter.

Conclusion: The Final Finish Line

Adria Hight understood better than anyone that racing isn’t just about the 300-mph passes or the trophies—it’s about the people you share the journey with.

“Adria Hight was the silent engine that powered a dynasty. While her father and husband captured the headlines, she captured the hearts of everyone who worked alongside her. At 56, she has crossed her final finish line far too soon, leaving behind a legacy of grace, intelligence, and unwavering loyalty. As the flags fly at half-mast across the racing world, we don’t just mourn a daughter of racing—we mourn the soul of a family.” 🏎️🏁🙏💔🕊️