NHRA legend John Force's special paint scheme honors Jeff Gordon

NHRA legend John Force is saying thanks to Jeff Gordon.

The 16-time NHRA Funny Car champion will honor the four-time NASCAR champion with a special paint scheme on his Chevrolet Camaro SS in this weekend's NHRA Carolina Nationals at zMAX Dragway in Concord, North Carolina. 

"I got the idea for the flames from Jeff telling me years ago he was a fan because I was always on fire. He was right. When I got started we were on fire from here to Australia," Force said. "I always enjoyed seeing Jeff at races and award banquets. The guy was just so polite and professional but you knew he had the eye of the tiger too. You don't win all those championships on your good looks. This special Funny Car is just a way for me, my family, my team, my sponsors, NHRA and the fans to say thank you for being a great champion and being such a great driver in NASCAR. I put as many flames as my designer Brandon (Baker) could fit on my hot rod in Jeff's honor."

In addition to recognizing Gordon's racing success, Force wanted to say "thank you" for the many times the pair of Chevrolet drivers shared the stage or autograph line over the years.