To know John Force is to know the Hall of Famer has built a career based on beating the odds. After suffering severe injuries in an accident on June 23, 2024, the 17-time champion is once again showing the same grit that has made him one of the more iconic drag racers in the sport. 

Force has been heavily sedated for five days in a Richmond trauma hospital following the incident to heal from injuries sustained. On Sunday, his team’s public relations members confirmed he has shown daily signs of improvement. 

The team confirmed he had suffered a Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI); he failed to follow the series of commands to open his eyes, squeeze the hands of his care providers, and move his extremities. There were times he was able to respond with slight movements, but it wasn’t until he moved from the trauma intensive care unit to the neurointensive care unit on Wednesday that he began to gain momentum.

Following the move, Force responded more consistently to commands and finally opened his eyes on day five. It took some time, but Force said his name and added a thumbs-up. 

One of the biggest hindrances in the healing process 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. Basically the doctors have discovered John Force being John Force. 

Force has a long road ahead of him on the road to recovery. His visitation is restricted to immediate family members only.

The Force Family has issued the following statement to the drag racing community. 

“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. Thank you to sponsors, fans, and the media for respecting the privacy of the Force family and the John Force Racing team members.”