NHRA legend John Force made a heartfelt return to the drag racing world at the Ford Performance Nationals at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, where he shared updates on his recovery journey and new sponsorship deals for his team. Force, a renowned Funny Car driver, was severely injured in a high-speed crash on June 23, 2024, at the NHRA Virginia Nationals. During the race, his engine exploded, causing him to collide with a concrete barrier at speeds over 300 mph. The crash left him with a traumatic brain injury, a fractured sternum, and a wrist injury.
In his first public appearance since the accident, Force addressed fans and media in Las Vegas, explaining his decision to step back from racing to focus on his health. “I’m going to be spectating for a while,” he said, noting that multiple head injuries over the years have taken a toll. But Force’s enthusiasm for the sport remains as strong as ever. “I’m not going anywhere. I’m a spectator, like you. So let’s have some fun today,” he added.
His appearance in Las Vegas was also an opportunity to announce new sponsorships, demonstrating his commitment to the future of his racing team. Though temporarily sidelined, Force’s passion and dedication continue to inspire his fans and fellow racers alike.
John Force’s journey back to the NHRA scene has been challenging and emotional. Following his catastrophic June 2024 crash, he was immediately flown to a Virginia hospital, where he spent over two weeks in intensive care. His time there began in the Trauma ICU, later transitioning to the Neuro ICU as his condition improved. After leaving Virginia, Force underwent extensive rehabilitation at the Barrow Neurological Institute in Phoenix to address cognitive and physical challenges, and then returned to California for outpatient therapy.
Throughout his recovery, Force’s family provided unwavering support. His daughters, Courtney Force Rahal and Brittany Force, and his wife Laurie were by his side, helping him through the most difficult days. Speaking at the Las Vegas NHRA event, Force expressed deep gratitude, not only to his family but also to his fans and team.
Force also shared exciting updates about John Force Racing, announcing sponsorship deals that will support the team well into 2025 and beyond. “[PEAK Antifreeze and Coolant] just put me in a four-year program, so I’m excited about that,” he said. “And Cornwell Tools signed up [Austin] Prock. They bought [sponsorship for] that car. So I’m back in business.”
Though he’s taking a break from competitive racing, Force’s return to the NHRA environment was emotional. “It’s good to be here,” he said. “The fans are unbelievable. Love the fans. Love NHRA. I hadn’t seen my team in four or five months almost. It was good to be back. I feel good. I’ve got a lot of work to do in the future. My teams have held it together, so God bless ’em. God bless all of you, and God bless America.”
With 157 event wins and 16 Funny Car world titles since his career began in 1978, Force’s legacy in NHRA remains unmatched. His return, even as a spectator, is a testament to his resilience and love for the sport.
