Mike Stavrinos has many accomplishments in heads-up racing, but one dream has eluded him until now. 

Stavrinos is on the verge of fulfilling his long-standing aspiration of becoming a professional NHRA Pro Mod racer in the 2024 season. Teaming up with Mike Janis Racing, Stavrinos will compete as part of their two-car Pro Mod team, with his debut scheduled to take place at the NHRA Gatornationals in Gainesville, which marks the first of ten events in the series' campaign.

Notably, Stavrinos will also have the chance to partake in the inaugural Phoenix "Duel of the Desert" for the Pro Mod class at the NHRA Arizona Nationals, signifying a momentous occasion for both the class and the Florida-based racer.

“This has been my dream since I was a little kid, to race at this level in a sport that I live for," Stavrinos said. "I started racing at eight years old in Jr. Dragster and have worked my way up along the years. This is ultimately where I want to be. NHRA Pro Mod. This is it.”

Following a successful debut in 2023, the four-race "Road to the Championship" will return in 2024 for NHRA Pro Mod, allowing Stavrinos the opportunity to contend for the title at various locations, including Indianapolis, Charlotte, St. Louis, and the finale in Las Vegas.

Getting to drive a Pro Modified is one thing, but getting to work alongside Mike Janis is another. 

“I’m excited to work with a great group of guys like Mike Janis Sr, Mike Janis Jr, and the entire Janis Racing Team," Stavrinos explained. "They have added even more talent to the team, which will help keep us at the top of the pack with both cars throughout the season. These guys ran strong in 2023 season and a great performance at the finale in Vegas,” Stavrinos added.

“Pro Mod will be one of the toughest classes in the NHRA series next year in my eyes with all the new cars and teams that will be participating. I’m just stoked to have the opportunity to be a part of this great team and compete.”

Prior to this momentous appointment, Stavrinos has competed in various Pro Mod racing, No Time Grudge Racing (N/T), and Radial vs the World Radial events in the Southeast. In his words, nothing compares to the sheer excitement he feels about becoming an NHRA Pro Mod racer.

Stavrinos attributed his enthusiasm to the camaraderie and connection he shares with the team at Mike Janis Racing. To him, building strong connections and relationships is pivotal, analogous to the synergy between a quarterback and his wide receivers in football. Stressed by the significance of this rapport, Stavrinos lauded Mike Janis Jr. for making him feel part of the team. He expressed his utmost excitement and commitment, vowing to give it his all.

Confident in his chances, Stavrinos believes he and Mike Janis Jr. have a solid shot at being competitive in pursuing the NHRA Pro Mod championship. He revealed that the 2024 season holds numerous fresh developments, including introducing a new car for his use later in the year.

Stavrinos took the opportunity to express his gratitude to his team at Speed & Truck World, his father, who has been his unwavering support since the beginning, and his girlfriend Cami, his staunchest advocate.

As the 2024 season approaches, Stavrinos and Mike Janis Racing begin testing in late January. During this time, Stavrinos plans to upgrade his NHRA license for Pro Mod competition ensuring he is fully prepared for the NHRA Gatornationals from March 7-10, 2024.