In a significant development, National Hot Rod Association (NHRA) legend John Force has been discharged from a Virginia hospital and transferred to a rehabilitation center for further treatment and recovery. Force, who recently endured a horrific crash at the Virginia Nationals, still faces a challenging road to full recuperation, according to his team.

The update provided by John Force Racing revealed that Force's departure from the hospital has been deemed a "major step forward in the recovery process" by his family. However, medical professionals have cautioned that the journey ahead will not be easy. The 75-year-old driver is grappling with cognitive and behavioral symptoms resulting from a traumatic brain injury sustained during the crash.

Though Force has been able to engage in conversations with both family members and medical staff, enjoy the company of his grandsons Jacob and Noah Hood, and even celebrate a recent birthday with his daughter Brittany, he continues to experience periods of confusion. The duration of his stay at the rehabilitation facility has yet to be determined, but it was chosen due to its successful track record in treating similar issues faced by other race car drivers.

John Force Racing has reiterated that Force is still in recovery from the traumatic brain injury caused by the engine explosion during the race at the Virginia Nationals. The terrifying incident occurred as Force was operating his Funny Car, with the engine suddenly exploding and causing him to lose control. The vehicle careened across the center line, crashing into the wall before swinging back and hitting the guard wall once again.

The team has reported that Force's vehicle experienced the engine explosion while racing at speeds exceeding 300 mph. A true icon in the NHRA, Force has an outstanding track record, having clinched 16 NHRA championships and 22 championships as a racing team owner. Furthermore, he holds the distinction of securing 10 consecutive titles as a driver from 1993 to 2002.

As the racing community eagerly awaits updates on John Force's progress, the focus remains on his recovery and the challenges he faces in overcoming the aftermath of the traumatic brain injury. Supporters and fans alike are sending their well wishes and hoping for a speedy and complete recovery for the racing legend.