Defending NHRA champion Matt Hagan will miss this weekend’s NHRA U.S. Nationals after testing positive for COVID-19. Don Schumacher Racing issued a statement Friday, just before the Camping World Drag Racing Series Funny Car division opened qualifying. 

“Hagan has not been in contact with anyone since his diagnosis and is currently quarantining,” the statement read. “DSR is committed to the safety of its employees and fans, and Hagan will return to competition once all appropriate health and safety measures have been implemented.”

Filling in for Hagan will be Tommy Johnson Jr.

“We’re disappointed Matt won’t have the opportunity to compete for a trophy this weekend, but the health and safety of our fans, competitors, NHRA staff, and team members is our top priority,” said team owner Don Schumacher. “We wish Matt a speedy recovery and hope he can return to competition soon. In the meantime, we’re pleased Tommy Johnson Jr. was available to fill in in Matt’s absence. Tommy has been a part of the DSR family for many years, and we know he will do Matt and DSR proud.”
 
Per NHRA rules, any points accumulated by Johnson during the NHRA U.S. Nationals will be awarded to Hagan, the current Funny Car point leader.