16-time After suffering brain injuries in a tragic crash in Virginia earlier this year, Funny Car champion John Force has announced his return to the NHRA scene in Las Vegas.
Force’s Chevrolet Camaro SS engine failed during the Virginia elimination rounds, causing a serious collision. His car struck a concrete barrier while traveling at almost 300 mph, causing catastrophic injuries such as a cracked sternum, wrist fractures, and brain damage.
Despite the severity of the injury, Force was still alive and able to communicate. He thanked his family for their support, particularly his daughter Brittany, who accompanied him on his journey to a local hospital.
He was treated in the Trauma ICU at first, but as physicians concentrated on his brain injuries, he was quickly moved to the Neuro ICU. “Our thoughts and prayers continue to go out to John and his family,” the NHRA wrote in an update provided at the time. It has been amazing to witness the overwhelming support from the racing community during this period, and he is a globally adored legend in our sport.We at the NHRA family send our warmest regards for John’s continued recuperation.
After first receiving treatment in the Trauma ICU, he was promptly transferred to the Neuro ICU while doctors focused on his brain damage. “Our thoughts and prayers continue to go out to John and his family,” the NHRA noted in a statement released earlier. He is a beloved legend in our sport, and it has been incredible to see the tremendous support from the racing community during this time.The NHRA family sends its best wishes for John’s ongoing recovery.
Although I continue to work daily to improve my physical condition, I also need to improve my mental health. I was hospitalized in Richmond since I was seriously injured in that collision. I’m currently out here, working at it every day, after spending time in rehab in Phoenix, Arizona.This relates to my greatest passion, which is racing. It’s the NHRA. I adore my sponsors, all of my fans, your messages, all you’ve written, and your unwavering support. You’ve shown me a lot of kindness throughout a difficult period.I mean, I’ve been lying in hospitals for the past four or five months.