Drag racing icon John Force is now recovering at home after a month-long stay in a rehabilitation center following a severe high-speed crash at the NHRA Virginia Nationals in late June. The John Force Racing team officially announced his discharge from Barrow Neurological Institute in Phoenix, Arizona, signaling a significant step forward in his recovery journey from a traumatic brain injury (TBI).
Force, a 16-time NHRA champion, was involved in a terrifying incident on June 23rd at Virginia Motorsports Park. Moments after securing a victory in his heat with a 302 mph run, his Funny Car engine exploded, sending him careening into a concrete barrier at high velocity. Despite the severity of the wreck, Force was able to exit his car but sustained serious injuries, including a TBI and a fractured sternum. He was immediately airlifted to a Virginia hospital, where he received initial treatment for 15 days before being transferred to the specialized neurological rehabilitation center in Phoenix.
John Force waving to fans, signaling recovery progress after the 2024 wreck
His daughter, Brittany Force, also a Funny Car driver, shared an uplifting update on social media, expressing relief and highlighting the family’s commitment to his continued healing. “Peace out Phoenix! After 30 days my dad is finally heading home where we will continue outpatient therapy,” she posted on Instagram. She emphasized the crucial role of family support in this next phase of recovery.
The next stage of Force’s rehabilitation will involve outpatient therapy focused on speech, occupational, and physical treatments. These therapies aim to address ongoing short-term memory and cognitive challenges resulting from the TBI he sustained in the John Force Wreck 2024. Prior to his release, positive updates had emerged regarding Force’s progress. His team had reported his ability to engage in conversations and regain his balance, allowing him to walk with assistance.
While these improvements are encouraging, daughter Courtney Force emphasized that her father still faces “a long road to recovery.” In a Twitter post, she conveyed gratitude to the medical staff in Phoenix and acknowledged the ongoing journey ahead for her father, a legend in drag racing. She shared photos of John Force in Phoenix, including one showing him with a cast on his arm, underscoring the physical impact of the NHRA Virginia Nationals wreck.
John Force’s legendary career began in 1978, and he has since accumulated an astounding 157 Funny Car event wins. Even after the John Force wreck 2024, he remains a competitive force, currently holding fifth place in the 2024 NHRA Funny Car standings after 11 events. His resilience and determination are evident as he embarks on this next chapter of recovery, supported by his family and the drag racing community.
