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John Force, perhaps the most famous drag racer of all time, suffered a traumatic brain injury in a terrifying crash that saw the 75-year-old’s car go up in flames a week ago.
Force lost control of his vehicle at over 300 miles per hour at the NHRA Virginia Nationals. He was examined at the track by the NHRA medical team before being transported by medical helicopter to a facility for further evaluation.
He now faces a long recovery after suffering a TBI and being unable to respond to commands several days after the accident.
John Force Making Slow But Steady Progress After Scary Crash
Doctors moved Force from trauma intensive care to neurological intensive care last week.
“He became more consistent responding to commands and finally opened his eyes on day five,” a statement from John Force Racing said. “Following days of failed attempts, his wife and daughters were overcome with emotion when he murmured his name ‘John Force’ and later when prompted, gave a thumbs up.
“The biggest challenge has been managing his extreme agitation and confusion, which causes him significant distress. He has repeatedly tried to get out of bed and has been restrained; his doctors have humorously described him as a raging bull.”
None of that comes as a surprise to Force fans. The 17-time champion is famed for his boisterous and sometimes over-the-top personality.
Force still has a long way to go in his recovery, however.
“Despite the welcomed progress, the 157-time tour winner still faces a long and difficult recovery ahead and for the immediate future, will remain in neurointensive care with visitation restricted to immediate family members only,” the statement further read. “John’s family members extend their deepest gratitude to the medical professionals responsible for his well-being and recovery. They deeply appreciate the overwhelming number of heartfelt messages, prayers, support, and concern from the entire automotive and racing industries.”