Simpson Performance Products and John Force Racing have reached an agreement naming Simpson as the official safety gear for John Force Racing, beginning with the 2010 NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series season. The partnership between the two companies will further the safety initiatives undertaken by The Eric Medlen Project, a safety initiative that grew out of the tragedy that claimed the life of promising young driver Eric Medlen.
Additionally, discussions are under way between JFR and Simpson to move personnel to Brownsburg, Ind., to grow the effect and influence of The Eric Medlen Project and safety programs in motorsports. The Eric Medlen Project has been responsible for safety innovations that now are mandated by NHRA in Funny Car and Top Fuel. A worldwide leader in the manufacture of racing safety equipment, including helmets, gloves, firesuits, and parachutes, Simpson will operate as a safety partner with JFR, working with John Medlen and The Eric Medlen Project.
Commenting on the partnership, Chuck Davies, CEO of Simpson said, “Simpson looks forward to working closely with the Force team and The Eric Medlen Project. Working together and sharing our knowledge and engineering resources with John Force Racing will lead to better, safer products for racers. Everyone at Simpson is very proud to be associated with John, his family, and the entire team. John’s 16 Funny Car championships as a driver and owner are a powerful testimony to his leadership and ability. When Force Racing wants to make something better, it happens. John wants to win with safety as a top priority, which is good for everyone in racing.”
“I like and trust the folks at Simpson,” said team owner Force. “I have worked with Dave Nelson for 20 years on my suits. Dave and his people are the best in the business. For 15 years, Allen and Debbie Bridges have attended every NHRA Full Throttle event with the traveling Simpson trailer providing support, onsite service, and a full complement of Simpson gear. We take safety seriously at John Force Racing. I asked for a safety company to step up and provide more than helmets and firesuits, and Simpson did that. That is why we are partnering with Simpson Performance Products.”