John Force Crash Update After 300mph Accident Sends Driver to Neuro ICU

Drag racing legend John Force recently endured a harrowing crash at speeds of around 300mph, resulting in head injuries and treatment in the ICU, with his family and racing team providing support and showcasing resilience during this challenging time.

May 19, 2024; Joliet, IL, USA; NHRA funny car driver John Force during the Route 66 Nationals at Route 66 Raceway. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports / Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

John Force, a titan in the world of drag racing with a storied nearly 50-year career, recently endured a harrowing crash while navigating his Chevy Camaro Funny Car at speeds topping 300mph during the Virginia Nationals at Virginia Motorsport Park. The incident happened as Force crossed the finish line and his engine catastrophically failed, causing his vehicle to collide with both guard walls before finally coming to a stop.

Following the crash, Force was coherent and could communicate with the National Hot Rod Association's medical team on-site. He was promptly transported to the hospital for extensive evaluation and treatment. Initially placed in the trauma intensive care unit, he has since been moved to the neuro intensive care unit, highlighting the severity of his head injuries.

The Force family, integral to the fabric of John Force Racing, gathered at the hospital, providing support as doctors monitor his condition. In a demonstration of familial solidarity and concern, Brittany Force, John's daughter and a racer herself, withdrew from the Summit Racing Equipment Nationals in Ohio to be with her father.

Britanny shared:

"My dad's going to be all right – I was in the ambulance with him, holding his hand. He's one of the toughest people I know, so he'll bounce back like he always does. It's something that's tough. We know that's a part of the sport. That's how this sport goes. I wouldn't be his daughter if I wasn't back up here in that car, trying to win this thing with this team for him."

Echoing the sentiment of resilience, teammate Austin Prock, who triumphed at the race meeting post-crash, dedicated his victory to Force, saying:

"He's one tough son of a bitch. It's just tough to see somebody go through that, especially when it's somebody you care about, but I know he'll be back. We're race car drivers and we have to flip the switch. I know John wanted us to be out here, going rounds, and I'm glad we did our job. This trophy is going straight to the hospital to John Force."

Now, in a statement released recently, the family extend their thanks to everyone wishing him the best:

“The Force family is grateful for the team of medical professionals who are caring for John, and for the overwhelming number of heartfelt messages of prayer, support, and concern,” the team statement said. “Thank you for continuing to respect the privacy of the family and John Force Racing team members.”

Force's career has been defined not just by his victories but his ability to persevere through adversity, including surviving a notable crash in 2007. His resilience has not only shaped his legacy but also that of his racing family, motivating them even in the face of this new challenge. Teammate Prock’s recent victory and Brittany's commitment highlight a spirit undeterred by the fears inherent in their high-speed profession.

As the racing community rallies behind John Force, reflecting on his tremendous influence on the sport and his indomitable spirit, all eyes remain on his recovery, hopeful for yet another comeback from the drag racing legend.