John Force, the iconic Funny Car driver, remains in intensive care at a Virginia hospital after a terrifying crash during the NHRA Virginia Nationals qualifying.
John Force Racing provided an update Monday night, stating that doctors are observing and evaluating Force, 75, and “purposely moving slowly in assessing the extent of his injuries.”
The crash occurred after Force completed his heat with a 302 mph run at Virginia Motorsports Park. His engine exploded into a massive fireball just after he crossed the finish line, causing the car to crash into both side walls. Despite the severity of the incident, Force managed to escape the flaming wreckage.
Doctors are awaiting a full evaluation of Force’s condition before determining a treatment and recovery plan.
Force’s daughter Brittany, a two-time NHRA champion, along with his wife Laurie and his other daughters Adria, Ashley, and Courtney, are at the hospital to support him while the racing team continues to compete in Norwalk, Ohio, this weekend.
John Force, a 16-time NHRA Funny Car champion, has won 157 races since his career began in 1978. He is currently second in the 2024 NHRA Funny Car standings through nine of the 21 events this season.
