NHRA Legend John Force Transferred to Neurological ICU After Crash

NHRA Funny Car icon John Force has been moved into a neurological intensive care unit following a fiery crash at the Virginia Nationals on Sunday. Force's car experienced an engine explosion at the end of his first-round race, causing it to collide with two outside retaining walls before coming to a stop. NHRA safety crew members swiftly assisted Force out of his vehicle after the accident, and reports indicated that the 75-year-old was conscious and communicating with the crew immediately afterward.

John Force Racing released a statement on Thursday, revealing that Force had previously been in a trauma intensive care unit, with doctors primarily focusing on his head injury. The team did not disclose further details about his injuries but mentioned that Force faces a challenging recovery ahead. They expressed gratitude towards the medical professionals caring for Force and appreciated the outpouring of support and well-wishes received.

Due to her father's condition, Force's daughter Brittany, who competes in the Top Fuel division for their team, will not participate in this weekend's event in Norwalk, Ohio. Instead, she will remain by her father's side at the hospital. The team's other Funny Car driver, Austin Prock, will compete in Ohio. Prock currently leads the Funny Car points standings, while Force holds the second spot.

John Force has an illustrious career and holds the title for the most wins in NHRA history. With a remarkable 157 race victories and 16 Funny Car championships to his name, Force has left an indelible mark on the sport. His dominance in American motorsports during the 1990s was unparalleled, as he clinched an astounding 13 championships from 1990 to 2004.

As John Force continues his recovery journey, the racing community and fans around the world send their thoughts and prayers, hoping for his swift and full recovery. The Force family and John Force Racing request privacy during this challenging time.