In an update Sunday, the National Hot Rod Association legend’s team said that John Force “has begun to show signs of recovery, according to his family, who continued to accompany him to the trauma hospital where he was transported by ambulance helicopter.”
John Force Racing spoke about the challenges their drivers faced in the days following the horrific accident at last weekend’s Virginia Nationals.
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John Force watches Top Fuel qualifying at the 2024 NHRA Virginia Nationals at Virginia Motorsports Park on June 22, 2024 in North Dinwiddie, Virginia. (Will Lester/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
Early in his recovery from a traumatic brain injury (TBI), Forth was unable to open his eyes, grasp a caregiver’s hand or follow commands to move his limbs, the team said, but once he was moved to the neuro-intensive care unit, he “began to regain his momentum,” the team said.
Force began to respond consistently to commands, opening his eyes on the fifth day of hospitalization, and learning to whisper his own name and give the thumbs up gesture.
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John Force competed at the NHRA Virginia Nationals on June 23, 2024. Seconds later, Force suffered a large explosion and crash, and was transported to a local medical facility for treatment. (Will Lester/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
“The biggest challenge has been managing his extreme agitation and confusion, which is causing him great distress,” the team added. “He has tried to get out of bed on multiple occasions and had to be restrained; doctors have humorously described him as a ‘rageful bull.’ However, he recognised his daughters and his wife, Laurie, calling each of them by name, and speaking the words ‘I love you.’ This, along with each day’s progress, has lifted their spirits.”
The team said Force, 75, still faces a “long and difficult recovery.”
“John’s family expresses their sincere gratitude to the medical professionals who have worked tirelessly to ensure his health and recovery,” the team said. “We are deeply appreciative of the many heartfelt messages, prayers, support and concern we have received from across the automotive and racing industries. We would like to thank sponsors, fans and media for respecting the privacy of the Force family and John Force Racing team members.”
John Force looks down the track after the first round of qualifying at the 17th Toyota Nationals NHRA Mello Yello Drag Racing Series event in Las Vegas. (David Ario/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
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The cause of Force’s Funny Car accident last weekend was said to be “major engine failure.” The engine blew up and Force drove over the median of the track and into a wall. His car then crossed the center line and into the wall on the other side.
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