Shirley Muldowney, often referred to as the First Lady of Drag Racing, is not just a pioneer in the male-dominated world of motorsports, she is a living legend who continues to inspire generations of racers and fans alike.
With sheer grit and undeniable talent, she became the first woman to earn a license from the National Hot Rod Association (NHRA) for driving a Top Fuel dragster, paving the way for future generations of female racers.
But beyond her impressive racing feats, many are curious about Shirley Muldowney net worth. Let’s delve into her remarkable biography, uncover her net worth in 2025, and learn about her family life and current endeavors that shape her legacy.
Shirley Muldowney Bio: Who is Shirley Muldowney?
she often called the “First Lady of Drag Racing,” is a groundbreaking American drag racer who became one of the sport’s most successful and influential figures.
She was the first woman to compete and excel in the male-dominated world of professional drag racing.
Shirley Muldowney Profile Summary
| Full Name | Shirley Ann Muldowney |
| Nickname | First Lady of Drag Racing |
| Date of Birth | June 19, 1940 |
| Age (as of 2025) | 85 years |
| Birthplace | Burlington, Vermont, USA |
| Height | 5 feet 5 inches |
| Weight | Approximately 62 kg |
| Career | Professional Drag Racer (Retired) |
| Husband | John Muldowney |
| Children | John Muldowney |
| Parents | Belgium Benedict Roque, Mae Roque |
| Net Worth | $10 million |
Shirley Muldowney Early Life
She was born on June 19, 1940, in Burlington, Vermont, into a modest family that emphasized hard work and determination. Her early experiences laid the foundation for her resilient spirit.
Growing up in a predominantly male-oriented environment sparked her interest in cars and racing at an early age. At just 16, she drove a friend’s dragster, a bold move that ignited her passion for speed and competition.
She broke barriers by joining local motorcycle clubs and participating in races. Facing skepticism as a female racer during the late 1950s and early 60s fueled her desire to prove herself against the odds.
Through grit and dedication, she made strides within the male-dominated world of drag racing. Securing sponsorships largely unseen by women of her time demonstrated not only her talent but also opened doors for future generations of female racers.
Shirley Muldowney Age
she is currently 84 years old as of 2025. She is widely recognized as a pioneering figure in drag racing, often called the “First Lady of Drag Racing.”
Her remarkable career has made significant contributions to the sport, and she remains an inspiring figure, especially for women in motorsports.
Shirley Muldowney Education
Her education came from real-world experiences rather than traditional schooling, it was this very grit and determination that distinguished her in a male-dominated sport.
She attended Burlington High School in Vermont, where she developed an interest in racing and motorsports. After high school, she briefly attended college but did not pursue a formal degree, choosing instead to focus on her racing career.
Her education in automotive mechanics and hands-on experience in the racing world played a crucial role in her success as a drag racer.
Shirley Muldowney Personal Life
Her personal life took a significant turn with her first marriage to Jack Muldowney. This union lasted several years but ultimately succumbed to the strains of high-pressure environments.
Their connection was forged in the backdrop of a burgeoning racing career, Shirley’s passion for motorsports often clashed with Jack’s expectations and lifestyle. This discord highlighted the inherent challenges faced by couples intertwined in the competitive world of professional racing.
Second Marriage (John Muldowney)
After her tumultuous first marriage, which was filled with the challenges of balancing family life and a burgeoning racing career, She married John Muldowney.
Her second marriage to John Muldowney marked a pivotal chapter in her life, both personally and professionally.
Shirley Muldowney Children
John Muldowney, the son of drag racing legend Shirley Muldowney, has carved out his niche beyond the world of high-speed cars. Growing up in the shadow of his mother’s monumental achievements, John was inevitably drawn into motorsports.
Shirley Muldowney Career
Breaking through the male-dominated racing scene in the 1970s, she became the first woman to earn a license to compete in Top Fuel drag racing. Her fierce determination and unparalleled skill behind the wheel led her to claim three NHRA World Championships.
Muldowney versatility shone through with an additional IHRA Championship victory and an impressive tally of 18 career NHRA wins, showcasing consistency and dominance on the strip.
Some notable achievements in her career are mentioned:
- Pioneer for Women in Motorsports: Opened doors for female racers and gained recognition in a male-dominated sport.
- NHRA Hall of Fame Inductee: Recognized for her contributions and achievements in drag racing.
- Movie: Subject of the biographical film Heart Like a Wheel (1983), which tells her story of breaking into professional drag racing.
Ups & Downs in Career
She was the first woman to earn a license to drive a Top Fuel dragster, breaking gender barriers in motorsport and inspiring countless female racers. She won three NHRA Top Fuel championships (1977, 1980, 1982), solidifying her legacy as one of the sport’s foremost drivers and showcasing her talent on an international stage.
Muldowney faced significant financial struggles early in her career, often relying on sponsorships that were scarce for women in racing. A near-fatal accident at the 1984 U.S. Nationals nearly ended her career, leading to a painful recovery process that tested her resilience both physically and mentally.
How Much is Shirley Muldowney Net Worth in 2025?
She the trailblazing pioneer of women’s drag racing, has solidified her legacy through groundbreaking achievements on the race track and strategically managing her financial trajectory.
As of 2025, her net worth stands at an impressive $10 million. This figure is a testament to her enduring influence in a predominantly male-dominated sport and reflects the residual income generated from sponsorships, merchandise sales, and public appearances that continue to celebrate her remarkable career.
Shirley Muldowney Vs Alex Kleyner Net Worth
Her net worth is estimated to be around $10 million. This estimation reflects her successful career in drag racing and she became the first woman to win an NHRA championship, claiming three NHRA Top Fuel titles during her career.
Alex Kleyner net worth is estimated to range between $6 million and $500 million, depending on different sources. His wealth primarily comes from National Debt Relief, Store2Door, and real estate investments.
Shirley Muldowney Social Appearance
On her Facebook page, she shares not just updates about her life but also historical insights into the sport that shaped her career.
Her Instagram presence offers an intimate glimpse behind the scenes, featuring everything from vintage photos that spotlight her legendary races to heartwarming moments with fellow racers and fans.
On Twitter, she sparks conversations about current events in motorsports. Platforms like TikTok provide a chance to see a lighter side as she navigates trends and engages with followers through fun challenges or Q&A sessions.
It’s this multi-platform approach that allows Shirley Muldowney not only to preserve her legacy but also to ignite passion for drag racing among diverse audiences today.
| Social Media Site | Linked Destination |
| Shirley Muldowney Official | |
| shirley_muldowney_official | |
| @ShirlMuldowney | |
| Official Website | Muldowney.com |
Conclusion
Shirley Muldowney net worth reflects not only her success as a groundbreaking figure in the world of drag racing but also her resilience and dedication to the sport.
With a career spanning several decades, she has shattered barriers and earned numerous accolades, solidifying her legacy as a pioneer for women in motorsports.
Her story is one of passion, determination, and triumph against the odds, inspiring countless individuals to pursue their dreams.
FAQs
Why Do They Call Shirley Muldowney Cha Cha?
She earned the nickname Cha Cha due to her distinctive and graceful driving style that resembled a dancer’s fluid movements on the track.
How Many Races Did Shirley Muldowney Win?
She made history as the first woman to receive an NHRA license for a Top Fuel dragster. Throughout her career, she achieved remarkable success, winning 18 NHRA national events.
What Kind of Car Did Shirley Muldowney Drive?
She famously drove a Ford Mustang during her racing career, particularly from 1973 to 1977 when she partnered with Connie Kalitta in match races.
