NHRA icon John Force, renowned for his 16 Funny Car championships, is set to make a remarkable return to the racing scene after recovering from a traumatic brain injury sustained in a severe crash at Virginia Motorsports Park in June. Force, 75, has been medically cleared to attend the Nevada Nationals at Las Vegas Motor Speedway next weekend, marking a significant step in his recovery journey.
Force’s announcement, shared in a video released by John Force Racing on Thursday, brings positive news to fans and the racing community alike. Despite the challenges of his recovery, Force expressed his determination and gratitude. “At the end of the day, I’m gonna recover and I’m getting better already,” he affirmed, “I’m working at it every day.”
The Nevada Nationals will be more than just a race for Force. He plans to be present to support his two-car Funny Car team, featuring drivers Austin Prock and Jack Beckman. Adding to the family affair, his daughter Brittany Force will also be competing in the Top Fuel class. Force emphasized his desire to reconnect with fans and sponsors, acknowledging their unwavering support throughout his career and recovery.
The crash that led to John Force’s injury occurred when his engine exploded during a run at Virginia Motorsports Park. His Funny Car veered into a wall at approximately 300 mph, resulting in a harrowing incident that shocked the NHRA world. Following the crash, Force received immediate and extensive medical attention, spending a month under hospital care. Initially, he was in intensive care at VCU Medical Center in Richmond before being transferred to Barrow Neurological Institute in Phoenix. Since his release, Force has continued his recovery at home in California, receiving outpatient treatment.
Acknowledging the ongoing nature of his recovery, Force described himself as “still a work in progress,” admitting to experiencing “good days and bad days.” Despite these fluctuations, his determination to return to the racetrack and engage with the racing community remains strong.
In his video message, Force expressed heartfelt appreciation for the outpouring of support he received during his hospitalization and recovery. “I want to take a minute and thank you,” he said, referring to the fans. “I want to tell you I love for the cards and the gifts and everything because you showed me that you cared at a time when I needed help.” He also extended his gratitude to his family, including his four daughters and son-in-law Robert Hight, for their steadfast support during what he recognized as “a scary time for them.” In typical John Force fashion, he lightened the moment with a touch of humor, joking, “Not for me; I didn’t have a clue where I was at.”
Looking ahead, Force conveyed optimism and resilience, concluding his message with, “We’re going to be OK.” His presence at the Nevada Nationals will undoubtedly be a morale boost for his team, his fans, and the entire NHRA community, celebrating his recovery and unwavering spirit.
