Racer Profile: Neelah Paul

A Rising Star in Junior Drag Racing

In the fast-paced world of drag racing, where precision and speed collide, one young driver is proving that talent knows no age. Neelah Paul’s journey into drag racing is one that’s been in the making since she was born into the sport. A native of Queensland, Neelah has been surrounded by the roar of engines and the thrill of competition for as long as she can remember. But her real story began when she took the wheel herself, starting to race at the tender age of 13. It was at that moment she discovered just how much adrenaline ran through her veins, propelling her to an exciting future in the sport.

Neelah’s entrance into the Junior Dragster category was nothing short of iconic. By 2024, she had already made an impression on the drag racing world. Her passion for the sport saw her becoming the first and only person in Australia selected as a program member for a prestigious American racing brand. Her growth in the sport has been meteoric, and in recognition of her dedication, Neelah received the “Underdog Award” for the 2024 season. But it was her achievements at the track that truly made her stand out.

Her rookie season was marked by determination and grit. Neelah made her first event final and secured the runner-up position—an impressive feat for any newcomer. Since then, she has made it to six finals and won two. She also claimed the title of the fastest junior at the 2025 New Year Nitro at Willowbank Raceway and at the 2025 Nitro on the Downs at Warwick Dragway. It’s no surprise that her fellow competitors are already taking notice of her natural talent behind the wheel.

Neelah races a 2006 RPC Junior Dragster, with a personal best of 7.62 seconds at 85 mph (136 km/h). This performance, while reflective of her growing experience in junior dragster racing, is achieved within the technical parameters of her class. For Neelah, racing is not just about the numbers—it’s about the precision of handling her car under performance handicaps, which requires skill in strategy, technique, and maintaining consistency. As she continues to refine her craft, her journey is as much about learning and adapting as it is about the times she posts.

The sport isn’t just about pushing the limits of performance; it’s also about resilience. “Drag racing is a sport of mentality, especially when it comes to race wins or losses,” Neelah shares. The emotional rollercoaster of the sport, where every race feels like a high-stakes battle, is something Neelah handles with remarkable composure, despite her age.

While drag racing may not yet have the widespread popularity of other motorsports, Neelah is determined to help grow the sport, using social media to connect with fans and share the excitement of the sport. “Drag racing isn’t exactly the popular motorsport,” Neelah admits, “but with the help of social media, it’s slowly growing.”

One of the most inspiring aspects of Neelah’s journey is how her entire family is involved in her racing career. Her parents, her partner, and her friends at the track are all crucial parts of her success. “I want to thank my parents, little brother, partner, and friends for all their support,” Neelah says. But it’s not just about the cheers from the sidelines—her family is directly involved in making sure her racing career stays on track.

Neelah’s racing career is a family affair, and she credits her parents with playing a huge role in her success. Her father’s background in racing is where Neelah first found her passion for speed, and her mother is an ever-present force at the track, offering support and encouragement whenever it’s needed most.

Neelah’s dreams for the future are big—she hopes to one day race a Pro Alcohol Funny Car in the Pro Series. Her ambition is clear, and with her track record of success, it’s no stretch to imagine her in one of these high-powered machines. But for now, Neelah remains focused on honing her skills and continuing to grow in the Junior Dragster category. The 2024 season has been a pivotal year for her, but she knows that the road ahead is paved with hard work, determination, and the will to succeed.

“I’ve worked hard for what I want,” Neelah says, offering advice to those who may follow in her tire tracks. “Keep your head high, and don’t let the negative comments get to you. There are people who are proud of you no matter what the outcomes are.”

Neelah Paul is not just a talented driver—she is also a role model for the next generation of young women looking to break into a male-dominated sport. With her impressive achievements and her commitment to the sport, she is paving the way for other girls who dream of making their mark in motorsports. Neelah’s story shows that with hard work and perseverance, there is no limit to what young women can achieve in the world of racing.