Why Trade in Track Spikes For a Driving Helmet? Antron Brown Shares His Reasons.

Three time NHRA Top Fuel world champion Antron Brown has always been a fan of motorsports, but for much of his life, didn’t see himself following it as a career path, especially after injuries curbed his early passion for motocross racing. A successful 100 yard sprinter in high school, Brown had earned a full scholarship to college on his track-running prowess when a lack of passion left Antron without direction.

However, as it often does, the universe took Antron in a whole new direction, one that led him to one of the most successful motorsports careers on record. As fate would have it, AB had a direct link to standout NFL cornerback Troy Vincent, who just happened to share his love of fast cars. Vincent had decided to use his on-field success to found a drag racing team and he wanted Antron on board with him from the beginning. Vincent founded Team 23 and he and Antron were immediately successful, winning multiple events in the team’s three years. After joining Don Schumacher Racing, Brown continued to ride in Pro Stock Bike before swapping to Top Fuel in 2008.

Since making the switch to the most powerful cars on the planet, Brown has enjoyed even more success, winning three world championships on the strength of 49 career win in 86 final round appearances. Brown is the first African-American competitor to win a major motorsports championship on 4 wheels, and has build a loyal fan following thanks not only to his stellar track record, but his infectious personality and ability to quickly connect with fans of all ages.

Brown is a huge asset to the sport of drag racing and, if you’ve caught his guest commentary gigs on the Fox Sports broadcasts, he certainly has a career ahead of him in broadcasting after he steps away from the driver’s seat. Hopefully that’s still many years away, though, and we will get to cheer AB on as he pursues his 50th career win and next world championship!