NHRA - National Hot Rod Association

Shawn Reed Racing has parted ways with longtime crew chief Rob Wendland. Ryan Elliott has been named interim crew chief and will assume leadership of the team’s NHRA Top Fuel program effective immediately.

Wendland played an instrumental role in helping build Shawn Reed Racing and establishing the foundation of the team’s Top Fuel program. During his tenure, he guided the organization to a major milestone with its first NHRA national event victory at the 2025 NHRA Reading Nationals.

“Rob has been an important part of Shawn Reed Racing from the beginning, and I have a tremendous amount of respect and appreciation for everything he has put into this team,” said team owner and driver Shawn Reed. “He helped us build this program, develop our people, and turn this team into an NHRA national event winner. Winning Reading together is something I’ll always be proud of, and I’m grateful to Rob for the role he played in getting us there.”

The decision comes as Shawn Reed Racing continues to evaluate the direction of its Top Fuel program and position the organization for continued growth and success.

Ryan Elliott will step into the interim crew chief role and oversee tuning and competition operations as the team moves forward.

“Ryan knows this team, understands our program, and has earned the opportunity to lead us through this transition,” Reed said. “Our expectations haven’t changed. We want to compete at a high level, continue improving, and put ourselves in a position to win races.”

Shawn Reed Racing extends its sincere appreciation to Wendland for his commitment, leadership, and contributions to the organization and wishes him continued success in the future.

Additional updates regarding the team’s competition program will be announced as appropriate.