Ida Zetterström: The Drag Racing Sensation Shaking Up the NHRA & Motorsport Universe
Ida Zetterström, a force to be reckoned with in the drag racing world, has been making waves with her outstanding performance and unwavering determination. From her humble beginnings in Junior Dragsters to her triumphant victories in European drag racing and the NHRA, Zetterström’s journey is nothing short of remarkable.
Hailing from Stockholm, Sweden, Zetterström was introduced to the adrenaline-pumping world of motorsports at a tender age. With her father as an engine builder, she spent her formative years immersed in the roar of engines and the thrill of the racetrack. Fuelled by her insatiable need for speed, Zetterström began her racing career at the young age of eight, competing in Junior Dragster categories and quickly showcasing her natural talent behind the wheel.
As she grew older, Zetterström transitioned to dominate the motorcycle drag racing scene, setting records and leaving her competitors in the dust with her exceptional skills. Despite her Swedish roots, Zetterström’s passion for racing knew no bounds, driving her to pursue her dreams relentlessly.
In 2021, Zetterström made a pivotal shift to Top Fuel drag racing, where she continued her reign of excellence. Her remarkable 3.862-second pass during the licensing process solidified her as one of Europe’s top Top Fuel racers, setting the stage for her meteoric rise in the FIA Drag Racing Championship. With multiple event wins and record-breaking performances, including a European elapsed-time record of 3.773 seconds and a speed record of 321 mph, Zetterström proved that she was a force to be reckoned with.
Not one to rest on her laurels, Zetterström sought new challenges and set her sights on the competitive NHRA circuit. In 2024, she made her debut with JCM Racing in the NHRA Top Fuel category, stunning audiences with her skill and tenacity on the track. Her impressive performance, including advancing to the semifinals in her first event and defeating seasoned champions, earned her the title of ‘Best New Talent’ by NHRA National Dragster, further solidifying her status as a rising star in the motorsport world.
Reflecting on her journey, Zetterström acknowledged the challenges of drag racing in Europe, where resources and support for Top Fuel cars are limited compared to the United States. Despite the obstacles, she remains undeterred, showcasing her resilience and unwavering dedication to her craft.
With a slew of historic achievements under her belt, including being the first woman to win in the European Super Street Bike class and earning titles such as the 2019 Scandinavian Super Street Bike Champion and the 2023 FIA Top Fuel World Champion, Zetterström’s legacy in drag racing is nothing short of legendary.
As she continues to defy expectations and push the boundaries of what is possible on the racetrack, Ida Zetterström stands as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring racers worldwide. Her journey from Junior Dragsters to the NHRA is a testament to her indomitable spirit and unwavering passion for speed, solidifying her status as the Drag Racing Queen taking the NHRA and the motorsport universe by storm.
