John Force, the iconic 16-time NHRA Funny Car champion, has made aheartening return to the drag racing track after a serious crash earlier in 2024 that resulted in a traumatic brain injury. While fans eagerly anticipate his return to the driver’s seat, Force is currently present at the track in Bradenton, Florida, offering invaluable support and guidance to his team, John Force Racing.
Force himself shared an update with fans via social media, conveying his enthusiasm:
“Hi, this is John Force, here at Bradenton. Excited to be back at the races. I got to go by Vegas and got to go by Pomona, and we had good weekends at both. But to see Brittany over there in her Monster Energy, that’s pretty exciting.”
His presence at Bradenton is a significant morale boost for John Force Racing. He was seen alongside Jack Beckman, who is currently filling in for Force, and expressed excitement for his daughter, Brittany Force. Brittany, driving the Monster Energy Top Fuel dragster, was notably fast in testing. Force mentioned, “I’m here with Jack Beckman. He’s ready to get in the game and start hunting. I’m excited for Brittany. She made two runs today. She’s fastest right now.”
Force reminisced about racing in Bradenton in the past and his fondness for the track, stating his desire to return, which he is now fulfilling in a supportive role. He also highlighted the success of Austin Prock, who secured the championship in the Cornwell Tools Chevrolet, with Beckman finishing second in the Peak Chevrolet, underscoring the strength of John Force Racing and its sponsors.
Despite not yet being cleared to race, Force’s update offered reassurance regarding his recovery and future intentions. He stated earlier in the 2025 NHRA season, “I’m still going to therapy every week and working as hard as I can to get back out there with the sponsors and the fans in a sport I love and I miss. I’ve still got a lot of things I want to do, so I don’t want anybody thinking they’ve seen the last of John Force. We’ll have a lot more to talk about after the holidays.”
Jack Beckman, continuing his association with John Force Racing, commented on his ongoing role: “I am thrilled to continue a partnership with PEAK and BlueDEF and look forward to returning to JFR in 2025… PEAK and BlueDEF products are trusted for our support vehicles and haulers, ensuring reliability and performance.”
John Force’s return to the track, even in a supporting capacity, is a positive sign for his fans and the NHRA community. His dedication to his team and his expressed desire to return to racing fuels anticipation for his eventual comeback to the driver’s seat.
