AR Elite Studio, Drag Illustrated
Cody Lane wins World Title in Comp/NHRA Drag Racing
For Cody Lane and Hancock & Lane Racing, 2024 marks a milestone—50 years in the making, built on passion, family, and relentless focus. Recently crowned the NHRA Comp world champion, Cody’s journey to the top of the drag racing world was no accident—it’s the culmination of years of hard work, strategic thinking, and a supportive team behind him.
Cody’s world championship title is the first for the team. His father, Jeff Lane, a veteran of the sport and also sponsored by Right Trailers, has claimed 16 division titles over his career, and Cody himself has been a consistent top performer. But this year was different.
“It’s a special feeling to have finally captured that world title,” Cody says. “It’s been a long journey for my dad and me, and to finally win it all—after so many near-misses and close calls—was a huge moment for us. This is a team effort. It’s not just me—it’s Jeff, it’s the whole Hancock Racing team, and it’s Right Trailers. We all did this together.”
The Journey
Cody’s love for racing began early. As a child, he was drawn to the sport but also enjoyed baseball and football. By the time he hit his teenage years, it became clear where his true passion was. “At about 16, I started to realize that it was time for me to drive,” Cody recalls. That shift in focus led him to the track, and it’s been full throttle ever since.
While Cody’s racing career may be rooted in a love for the sport, Cody remains grounded in his family life. He credits his wife for making sacrifices so he could chase his dreams. “My wife, she knows I love this sport and knows it takes me away from home. She took on a big burden during the final stretch of this season. The biggest sacrifice for me is the time away from my family. My wife is handling a lot, especially during the busy race season, and I don’t take that for granted,” he says. “It’s hard being away from my kids, but I’m lucky to have a supportive family and crew behind me.” Cody also juggles his racing career with a full-time job, which adds an extra layer of complexity to his schedule. “Luckily, they’re very understanding of my racing commitments. They know how important it is to me, and they’re supportive of my involvement in the sport.”
It’s that kind of support that allowed Cody to fully immerse himself in the winning mindset. “Every year, my goal is to win the world championship,” he says. “I’ve been fortunate to have a strong mentorship from people like my father – Jeff Lane, Jerry
Emmons and Wyatt Wagner, who have helped me stay focused and improve every season.”
While many racers fixate on the points race throughout the season, Cody took a different approach. “I never looked at points once this year,” he shares. “My goal was simple: win every race. If I do that, the points will work themselves out.” Cody credits his success to a mix of preparation, teamwork, and a clear mental focus. “Starting the season with a runner-up finish at the Winternationals in Pomona and then a win in Las Vegas in the spring gave me a real sense that this year was going to be different,” he recalls. “We didn’t ramp up the intensity, but we heightened our focus every step of the way.”
A Team Effort and the Role of Right Trailers
Behind every successful racer is a strong team, and for Cody, that includes his crew, his family, and his key sponsor: Right Trailers. A relationship that began in 2021, Right Trailers has been an integral part of his racing program. “Right Trailers has been instrumental in our success. It’s not just about having a great product, it’s about the people behind the brand. Michael has been incredibly supportive, and I feel proud to represent a company that invests in racers and their programs.”
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“We don’t just represent Right Trailers because they sponsor us; we truly believe in their products. My dad, for example, uses one of their rigs for his electric race car.” The partnership with Right Trailers, which has been going strong for nearly four years, is not just about the trailers—it’s about alignment with a brand that values both quality and the racing community. “Michael and his family are great people, and I think that’s why the partnership has worked so well. They’re passionate about racing, and we are too.” As Cody prepares for the 2025 season, the goal remains the same: continue building on the momentum of this championship season, push for even more success, and—most importantly—share those moments with his family. He knows that racing at this level requires hard work, dedication, and sacrifice, but he’s also keenly aware that it’s all worth it when you have the right team by your side.
The Future of Racing: Cody’s Sons and the Legacy of Hancock Racing
The legacy of his World Championship victory will undoubtedly inspire the next generation of racers—especially his two young sons — Callahan, 4, and Carter, 3. “Racing has been my life, but I want my boys to choose their own path,” he says. “If they decide racing is for them, I’ll be there to support them.”
“I wasn’t forced into racing; I just loved it. If my boys feel the same way, I’ll support them. But they’ll have to show me they’re serious about it,” he adds with a smile.
“They’ll have to go above and beyond—pick up around the house, get good grades, and show they really want to do this because it’s an expensive sport.”
Cody’s focus on family and his desire to give his sons the same sense of independence and love for racing that he had growing up speaks to his character.
For Cody Lane, winning the NHRA Comp World Championship was a true milestone, but it’s only the beginning of a new chapter. With the foundation of Hancock & Lane Racing as strong as ever, Cody’s commitment to his family, his team, and the sport is clear. The road ahead is filled with opportunity, and with the right mindset, support, and passion, Cody and his team are ready to race in 2025.