In the world of motorsports, adrenaline and horsepower often steal the spotlight, but behind every successful team and legacy lies an engine of a different kind—someone working tirelessly in the background to hold it all together. For NHRA (National Hot Rod Association) fans, the Hight family is a well-recognized name, particularly thanks to Funny Car champion Robert Hight. But among those who keep the family’s racing empire running smoothly is a name that deserves more recognition: Adria Hight.
Though not always in the public eye, Adria Hight is a vital part of John Force Racing (JFR), a motorsports dynasty led by the iconic John Force, one of the greatest drag racers of all time. As Force’s daughter and Robert Hight’s ex-wife, Adria’s connection to the NHRA world runs deep. But her contributions are more than just familial—they are professional, personal, and influential.
In this article, we dive deep into the life and role of Adria Hight, exploring her journey, her place in the racing world, and why she stands out as a compelling figure in the high-octane sport of drag racing.
Who Is Adria Hight?
Adria Hight (née Force) was born into the world of racing. As the daughter of the legendary John Force, she was raised in an environment where race cars, pit crews, and roaring engines were a part of daily life. However, unlike her father or sister Brittany Force—both racers—Adria chose a different path. She focused on the business side of racing, a choice that would later make her a central figure in the administration of one of drag racing’s most powerful teams.
Adria serves as the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of John Force Racing, overseeing budgets, sponsorship deals, team logistics, and much more. In a sport that often requires millions of dollars to stay competitive, Adria’s role is crucial. She ensures that the wheels—both literal and metaphorical—keep turning efficiently.
Adria Hight and John Force Racing
Founded in 1994, John Force Racing has grown into a powerhouse team in the NHRA, competing in both Funny Car and Top Fuel categories. With multiple championships and record-breaking performances under their belt, JFR is a well-oiled machine. Behind that machine is a group of professionals who rarely make headlines but are indispensable, and Adria Hight is one of them.
As CFO, Adria manages more than just numbers. She plays a critical role in aligning the team’s financial goals with its operational needs. Whether it’s negotiating sponsorship contracts with industry giants or planning long-term investments, her work ensures that JFR can maintain its elite status in the NHRA.
Her business acumen and deep understanding of motorsports allow her to bridge the gap between high finance and high performance. This blend of skills sets her apart—not only within her family but also among other motorsports executives.
Personal Life: Marriage, Family, and Identity
For many years, Adria Hight was married to Robert Hight, another key member of the JFR family and a champion Funny Car driver. Their marriage created one of the most recognized power couples in drag racing, both professionally and personally invested in the success of JFR. The couple has a daughter, Autumn Hight, who has grown up attending races and could very well be a future force in the sport herself.
Although Adria and Robert eventually divorced, their split did not disrupt the professional structure of JFR. Both continued to work within the organization, a testament to their professionalism and shared commitment to the team’s legacy. This kind of maturity is rare in high-profile sports circles and speaks volumes about Adria’s character and dedication.
The Force Family Dynamic
The Force family is essentially racing royalty. With John Force as the patriarch, daughters like Courtney, Ashley, and Brittany have all made their mark in NHRA racing. Yet Adria Hight, though not a driver herself, plays an equally crucial role.
Unlike her sisters who thrive in the driver’s seat, Adria has carved out her space behind the scenes—managing, coordinating, planning, and negotiating. It’s this behind-the-scenes brilliance that keeps JFR a dominant presence on the track.
Being part of such a high-profile family comes with its own pressures. But Adria handles it with grace, staying mostly out of the limelight while maintaining a strong influence behind the curtain.
Why Adria Hight Matters in Motorsports
Breaking the Mold
Motorsports has historically been a male-dominated industry—not just in terms of drivers but also in leadership and financial roles. Adria Hight breaks that mold, representing the increasing presence and importance of women in the executive levels of racing organizations.
Her role challenges traditional norms and provides inspiration for young women who want to enter the business side of motorsports. In an age where diversity and inclusion are finally getting attention in sports, Adria is a quiet but powerful example of progress.
Business Meets Passion
For Adria, motorsports is not just a job—it’s part of who she is. Her passion is evident in how she steers the financial future of a racing empire. This blend of personal connection and professional responsibility makes her particularly effective at her job.
She’s not just managing a company—she’s managing a legacy. And that requires more than numbers on a spreadsheet; it demands vision, resilience, and emotional intelligence.
Adria Hight in the Media
Though not often in the media spotlight, Adria occasionally makes public appearances at racing events, sponsorship unveilings, and team celebrations. Her rare interviews often highlight her love for the sport and her belief in teamwork, discipline, and innovation.
Fans who do follow JFR closely know her name and respect her role. Among insiders and NHRA fans, she is recognized as a strong figure who holds significant sway in how the team operates and evolves.
A Balanced Life Beyond Racing
While her work at JFR is significant, Adria Hight also values her role as a mother. Raising Autumn has been one of the most important aspects of her life, and she often balances travel, work, and parenting with quiet dedication.
She’s also involved in charitable efforts and community outreach initiatives, sometimes alongside her famous father or sisters. These actions reflect the values instilled in the Force family—hard work, humility, and giving back.
Adria Hight’s Lasting Impact
Adria may not be the one crossing the finish line in a blaze of nitro and rubber, but her influence is felt in every race. From organizing team logistics to ensuring sponsors are satisfied and the team stays financially viable, her presence is indispensable.
As NHRA and other motorsports evolve, roles like Adria’s will only become more essential. The increasing commercialization of the sport, rising costs, and the push for sustainability and innovation all require sharp financial minds at the helm.
Her ability to stay grounded, strategic, and professional in the face of both business and family dynamics makes her a unique asset not just to John Force Racing, but to the sport as a whole.
The Legacy of Adria Hight
Beyond the Numbers
Adria Hight’s legacy is not measured in race wins or trophies. It’s measured in consistency, leadership, and the strength of an organization that thrives thanks to her strategic vision. Her legacy lies in building a system where talent—whether behind the wheel or behind a desk—can flourish.
A Role Model for Women in Racing
In a world where women still fight for visibility and respect in executive roles, Adria offers a real-world example of what’s possible. She didn’t follow the crowd or get swept into the spotlight; she carved her own path and did so with remarkable effectiveness.
Conclusion:
The world of NHRA drag racing may be dominated by thunderous engines and lightning-fast finishes, but without the quiet strength of people like Adria Hight, those moments would never come to pass. She is the steady hand behind the chaos, the financial architect of a racing dynasty, and a powerful force in her own right.
Her story is a reminder that not all heroes wear racing helmets—some wear business suits, carry spreadsheets, and make deals that ensure the team is ready for race day. Adria Hight may not be a household name outside the racing community, but to those who know her story, she is every bit a champion.
