Iconic Voice of the Outlaw Eighth-Mile Al Tucci Dishes on Drag Illustrated Winter Series Presented by J&A Service
Al Tucci has been an integral part of the Drag Illustrated family since the brand’s early days. A personal friend of Drag Illustrated founder and editorial director Wes Buck, Tucci’s connection with the company stretches back to 2005, when Drag Illustrated was just beginning its journey. In the years since, Tucci has left an indelible mark on the company and its events, especially the Drag Illustrated World Series of Pro Mod.
Tucci’s signature style, blending unbridled enthusiasm with deep knowledge of the sport, has elevated the World Series of Pro Mod from a thrilling competition to a must-see spectacle. His impact was perhaps most profound when he became the official announcer for the World Series of Pro Mod’s first three editions at the iconic Bandimere Speedway in Denver, Colorado (2017, 2018, 2019). When the World Series made its move to Bradenton Motorsports Park in Florida in 2023, Tucci’s presence was non-negotiable. His booming voice and high-energy delivery once again brought the action to life for fans in the stands and the thousands more watching online.
With the Drag Illustrated World Series of Pro Mod now evolving into a multi-event competition—culminating in the Drag Illustrated Winter Series—Tucci is eager to continue expanding his role as the voice of the series. Reflecting on his experience, Tucci shared his excitement for what lies ahead:
“This has been such a great experience announcing the World Series of Pro Mod for Wes Buck and Drag Illustrated,” Tucci said. “The vision from the mountains to the sea has really become a national-style event setting. I feel like watching over 50 to 60 Pro Mods battle it out, it’s not just about the money; it’s 100% about the prestige of winning the World Series of Pro Mod. I can’t wait to see what 2025 brings to the lanes.”
Tucci’s excitement for the future is palpable, especially as the Winter Series promises to build on the World Series’ legacy. As he put it, the series offers a unique experience that drag racing fans simply cannot miss.
“If you lived through it, you’ll understand it,” Tucci said. “If you haven’t witnessed the World Series of Pro Mod, you have to be there to witness the coming together of over 90,000 horsepower and more than 50 racing teams lighting up the Bradenton sky. I personally suggest being at Bradenton Motorsports Park this winter for the races of a lifetime.”
In his own unique style, Tucci likened the experience to something unforgettable, noting with a laugh, “Have you ever been in the jungle and heard the legendary mating ritual of two 1,500-pound warthogs? It’s the most bone-chilling sound you’ll ever hear. The only sound better is the climaxing roar of the World Series of Pro Mod—a sound that will stay with you for the rest of your life!”
For Wes Buck, Tucci’s involvement goes beyond just his iconic voice. Buck emphasizes the synergy and shared passion that Tucci brings to each event:
“The magic happens when you put people together that are willing and able to match one another’s excitement, energy, and effort. Tucci brings the heat. He always has, and he always will,” Buck said. “Perhaps most importantly, at least for me, is the fact that Tucci holds these men and women who drive these incredibly dangerous Pro Mods with the same reverence that I do. We see them as our heroes, as legends, as icons, as difference-makers in this sport that deserve to be celebrated.”
As the Drag Illustrated Winter Series presented by J&A Service approaches, Tucci will anchor the in-venue experience alongside NHRA on FOX’s Brian Lohnes and noted outlaw drag racing announcer Steve Logan. Together, the trio will guide fans through drag racing’s ultimate high-stakes shootout series, which kicks off with the Snowbird Outlaw Nationals presented by Motion Raceworks from December 6-8, 2024.
The series will then move into the U.S. Street Nationals presented by M&M Transmission, before culminating in the event that started it all—the Drag Illustrated World Series of Pro Mod presented by Smokie’s Garage.
“Tucci is part of the fabric of the doorslammer drag racing community, and we’re thrilled to carry on this tradition,” Buck added. “We can’t wait to see where this journey takes us next.”
For drag racing fans, the Drag Illustrated Winter Series at Bradenton Motorsports Park represents not just a continuation of a legacy but a chance to be part of something truly special—an opportunity Tucci, Buck, and the entire Drag Illustrated team are eager to share with the world.
This story was originally published on October 23, 2024.
The post Iconic Voice of the Outlaw Eighth-Mile Al Tucci Dishes on Drag Illustrated Winter Series Presented by J&A Service first appeared on Drag Illustrated.
