In a harrowing incident that has sent shockwaves through the drag racing community, 75-year-old NHRA legend John Force was involved in a catastrophic accident during the Virginia Nationals at Virginia Motorsports Park. The accident occurred during the first round of Funny Car eliminations when Force’s vehicle experienced a catastrophic engine failure at the finish line, propelling the car across the centerline and into the left concrete guard wall before ricocheting into the right wall. The vehicle was traveling at a staggering speed of 302 mph at the time of the crash. citeturn0search0
Immediately following the impact, Force was alert and communicative with the NHRA safety team. He was initially evaluated on-site by the NHRA Medical Team and subsequently airlifted to a nearby medical facility for comprehensive assessment. Medical evaluations revealed that Force had sustained a traumatic brain injury, a fractured sternum, and an injury to his right wrist. He was admitted to the trauma intensive care unit and later transferred to the neurological ICU, where he remained under close observation. citeturn0search0
The Force family, including his daughters Brittany, Ashley, and Courtney, expressed profound gratitude for the outpouring of support from fans and the meticulous care provided by medical professionals. Brittany Force, herself a two-time NHRA Drag Racing Series Top Fuel champion, shared an update on social media, posting a photo of her father giving a thumbs-up from his hospital bed. She noted, “Peace out Phoenix! After 30 days, my dad is finally heading home where we will continue outpatient therapy. These next steps to recovery will definitely be a family effort!” citeturn0search2
Teammate Austin Prock, who secured victory in the Funny Car division later that day, dedicated his win to Force. From the winners’ circle, Prock stated, “This trophy is going straight to the hospital to John Force. It’s tough to see somebody go through that, especially when it’s someone you really care about, but I know he’ll be back.” citeturn0search1
Force’s storied career spans several decades, marked by resilience and an indomitable spirit. In 2007, at the age of 58, he survived a severe crash in Ennis, Texas, which resulted in multiple injuries. Demonstrating remarkable tenacity, Force returned to the track and continued to compete at the highest levels. Earlier in 2024, he secured his record 157th NHRA victory in New Hampshire, further solidifying his legacy in the sport. citeturn0search10
As of now, Force has been discharged from the Barrow Neurological Institute in Arizona and has returned to his home in Yorba Linda, California. He will continue to receive outpatient treatment, including speech, occupational, and physical therapy, to address lingering short-term memory and cognitive challenges. The Force family remains optimistic about his recovery, emphasizing that while the journey ahead is demanding, John’s determination and the unwavering support from the racing community provide a strong foundation for his rehabilitation. citeturn0search2
The National Hot Rod Association and fans worldwide continue to rally behind Force, sending messages of encouragement and well-wishes. As the drag racing world holds its breath, all eyes remain on John Force, a testament to resilience and passion in the face of adversity.
