Matt Hartford after his Gatornationals win
The win ended a 40-race drought for Hartford and marked his first national event victory since 2023. Driving the Total Seal Chevrolet Camaro, Hartford sealed the deal in the final round with a strong 6.530-second run at 210.41 mph against six-time world champion Greg Anderson.
It was an impressive run through a stacked field. On the way to the trophy, Hartford defeated Kenny Delco, Aaron Stanfield, and reigning world champion Dallas Glenn before lining up for the final.
Rather than chasing the quickest qualifying times, Hartford’s team focused on building what racers call a “Sunday combination”—a setup designed for consistency and reliability as track conditions change throughout race day. That strategy paid off round after round.
The victory carried special significance for Hartford and his team. Unlike many of the larger multi-car operations in Pro Stock, Hartford Racing is a small, family-run organization. Hartford has often said he prefers the close-knit nature of his crew and the pride that comes with winning as an independent team.
For Rottler Manufacturing, the moment was especially gratifying. We’ve been proud supporters of Matt and his team for years, and we’ve admired their perseverance through the ups and downs that are part of any racing program. Seeing their hard work pay off on one of drag racing’s biggest stages was something the entire Rottler family celebrated.
The win was Hartford’s ninth career national event victory and his first ever Gatornationals title—an achievement made even more special as the NHRA begins its 75th anniversary season. The victory also earned Hartford the first “Diamond Wally” trophy awarded in the Pro Stock category this year.
Congratulations to Matt Hartford and the entire Hartford Racing team on a well-deserved win.
