NHRA Legend John Force Moved to Neurological Intensive Care Following Fiery Cras
On June 23, 2024, drag racing icon John Force, at 75 years old, suffered a harrowing crash during the first round of Funny Car eliminations at the NHRA Virginia Nationals. His Chevrolet Camaro experienced a catastrophic engine explosion after crossing the finish line at 302.62 mph, causing the car to veer across the centerline and strike both guard walls before coming to a stop .
Immediate Response and Medical Care
Following the crash, Force was quickly attended to by NHRA’s Safety Safari crew. Remarkably, he was conscious and communicating with safety personnel at the scene. He was then airlifted to a nearby trauma hospital for further evaluation and treatment .
Four days post-accident, Force was transferred from the trauma intensive care unit to the neurological intensive care unit to address a serious head injury, which was the primary concern of his medical team . This move marked a critical phase in his recovery, as doctors focused on stabilizing his condition and monitoring neurological function.
Family Support and Team Response
Throughout this challenging time, Force’s family remained steadfast by his side. His daughter, Brittany Force, a two-time Top Fuel world champion, chose to stay with her father at the hospital, foregoing participation in the upcoming Summit Racing Equipment Nationals in Norwalk, Ohio . In her absence, team member Austin Prock stepped in to represent John Force Racing, embodying the team’s resilience and unity.
The Force family expressed deep gratitude for the outpouring of support from fans and the motorsport community. In a statement, they thanked the medical professionals caring for John and acknowledged the overwhelming messages of prayer and concern .
Recovery and Rehabilitation
After spending several weeks in the neurological intensive care unit, Force was transferred to the Barrow Neurological Institute in Arizona for specialized rehabilitation. There, he began outpatient therapy, including physical and occupational therapy, to address lingering short-term memory and cognitive issues resulting from the traumatic brain injury .
Throughout his recovery, Force remained optimistic and determined. In a message shared by his daughter Brittany, he expressed his gratitude for the support and reaffirmed his commitment to returning to racing, stating, “I’ve been through tough times before, and this is no different. I’ll be back. I’m not done yet” .
Legacy and Future Outlook
John Force’s career spans over six decades, during which he has become a towering figure in drag racing. With 16 NHRA Funny Car titles and 157 race wins, he holds the record for the most victories in NHRA history . His resilience and dedication to the sport have inspired countless fans and fellow competitors.
As he continues his recovery, the racing community remains hopeful for his return to the track. Force’s journey is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the unwavering support of family and fans.
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