Schumacher Electric Founder and NHRA Drag Racing Legend
The motorsports world mourns the loss of Don Schumacher, a renowned figure in the industry. Schumacher, who was a top Funny Car driver in the 1960s and 1970s, passed away recently. He was not only a successful driver but also the founder of Schumacher Electric, a global company known for its production of battery chargers, testers, maintainers, and more.
A Legacy of Success
After leaving racing in the early 1970s, Schumacher dedicated himself to growing Schumacher Electric. His efforts paid off, as the company expanded its operations across the United States, China, Mexico, and Belgium. With a diverse range of products, including lithium and electric vehicle charging solutions, Schumacher Electric became a massive success.
In 1998, Schumacher made a triumphant return to NHRA Drag Racing, this time as a team owner. Teaming up with his son, Tony, they made their debut at the U.S. Nationals in Indianapolis, instantly establishing themselves as a powerhouse in the sport.
A Champion On and Off the Track
Throughout his career, Schumacher achieved remarkable success. His teams accumulated an impressive 19 NHRA world championships and 367 Wally trophies. Notably, he was a five-time Funny Car champion. But his contributions extended beyond winning races.
Schumacher was a pioneer in driver safety, introducing innovative measures to protect racers. He developed a roof-mounted escape hatch, allowing drivers to quickly exit in case of fires. Additionally, he was the first to mount a lever on the Funny Car’s brake handle to activate a fire suppression system, enabling drivers to apply both the brakes and the system while keeping one hand on the steering wheel.
As a team owner, Schumacher spearheaded the development of a protective canopy for Top Fuel dragsters, prioritizing safety for drivers. This innovation has since been adopted by multiple NHRA teams, further enhancing the sport’s safety standards.
Beyond his racing achievements, Schumacher was passionate about giving back. He organized fundraising events, benefiting charities like the Riley Hospital for Children. Additionally, he collaborated with organizations such as the Infinite Hero Foundation, Make-A-Wish Foundation, and MD Anderson Cancer Center, showcasing their causes through dedicated tribute liveries on his team’s race cars.
A Life Celebrated
The Schumacher family will hold a celebration of life ceremony in honor of Don Schumacher at a later date. His impact on the racing world and his philanthropic endeavors will be remembered and cherished by fans, friends, and the entire motorsports community.
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