A tragic incident occurred at Orlando Speed World Dragway on February 2, 2025, claiming the life of seven-year-old junior drag racer Elienisse Zoe Díaz Rodriguez. While fulfilling her dream of driving a Junior Dragster during a Funday Sunday event, Elienisse lost control of her vehicle, which struck a 34-year-old safety guide before colliding with a concrete wall. She was immediately transported to Arnold Palmer Hospital, where she fought for her life for two days before being declared brain-dead on February 4.
Elienisse was a first-grade student at Eastland Christian School in Orlando. The school expressed profound grief, stating, “She was a bright light in our school community, and we are thankful for the time we had with her. Her beautiful smile will be deeply missed by all of us.”
In the aftermath of the accident, Orlando Speed World Dragway conveyed their condolences, emphasizing the inherent risks associated with motorsports: “Motorsports is built on passion, but moments like these remind us of the risks that … . While injuries can heal, the pain … .”
To assist with funeral expenses and honor Elienisse’s memory, her family established a GoFundMe page, which has garnered significant support from the community.
This tragic event underscores the importance of stringent safety measures in youth motorsports. The racing community, while passionate, is reminded of the potential dangers inherent in the sport. As investigations continue, the focus remains on supporting Elienisse’s family and ensuring such incidents are prevented in the future.
