John Force Racing team president Robert Hight has expressed hope and optimism for drag racing legend John Force’s return to the sport. Force, who suffered a serious accident in June 2024, is recovering from a traumatic brain injury (TBI) along with a fractured sternum and a right wrist injury. After spending time in the hospital and undergoing treatment at the Barrow Neurological Institute in Phoenix, Force has returned home to Yorba Linda, California, to continue his recovery.
Hight, who is also a champion Funny Car driver, visited Force during his hospitalization and was encouraged by his progress. While Force is making steady improvements, including regaining some equilibrium and starting to walk with assistance, he still faces challenges with cognitive and behavioral symptoms from his TBI.
Hight mentioned that while Force’s return to drag racing would be exciting, the primary focus remains on his health and recovery. The team is considering potential candidates to fill in for Force temporarily, emphasizing the importance of finding the right fit for both the team and their sponsors.
As Force continues his outpatient therapy, his family and team remain supportive and hopeful for his eventual return to racing, although no specific timeline has been set.
John Force, the legendary NHRA drag racer, is making strides in his recovery following a severe crash that resulted in a traumatic brain injury (TBI) and other injuries. The accident occurred at Virginia Motorsports Park in June 2024, where Force’s Funny Car crashed into the wall at over 300 mph after an engine explosion. Although Force was initially conscious and responsive, he was later diagnosed with a significant TBI along with a fractured sternum and wrist injuries.
After spending weeks in hospitals in Richmond and at the Barrow Neurological Institute in Phoenix, Force has returned home to Yorba Linda, California. He is now undergoing outpatient therapy, including speech, occupational, and physical therapy, to aid his recovery. His family has been a constant support, with his daughters and wife maintaining a presence throughout his hospitalization.
While Force is showing progress by starting to walk with assistance, he continues to face challenges related to his TBI, such as short-term memory and cognitive issues. His team, John Force Racing, and fans remain hopeful for his full recovery. Team president Robert Hight has expressed optimism about Force’s progress and the possibility of his return to racing, though the priority remains on his health.
The racing community has rallied around Force, offering support and encouragement during this difficult time. The Hall of Fame driver’s resilience and determination are evident as he continues his journey toward recovery. While a specific timeline for his return to racing has not been set, the focus remains on Force’s rehabilitation and well-being.
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