John Force’s recovery: what happened and what we know so far – Timeline

Veteran drag racing champion John Force, 75, was hospitalized on June 23 after a serious crash at an NHRA race in Virginia. The crash, which occurred at nearly 300 mph due to engine failure, caused Force’s car to crash into two track walls. In the weeks since, Force has made significant progress with the support of his family. Here’s a look at what happened and what we know so far.

June 23: John Force hospitalized after 487 km/h crash

Veteran race car driver John Force, 75, was hospitalized after a serious crash at an NHRA race in Virginia. Force, who had recently claimed his 157th NHRA race win, suffered an engine failure at nearly 300 mph, causing his car to crash into the two track walls. Despite the crash, he remained conscious and communicated with safety crews.

Force’s daughter Brittany commented at the time:

“My dad is going to be fine. I was in the ambulance with him, holding his hand. He’s one of the strongest people I know, so he’ll bounce back like he always does.”

June 27: Transferred from the trauma ICU to the neurology ICU

Four days after his crash, drag racing champion John Force was moved from the trauma ICU to the neurological ICU, where doctors focused on his head injury. The NHRA posted on social media at the time:

“We continue to think and pray for John and his family. He is a legend of our sport and is much loved around the world. It has been incredible to see the tremendous support from the racing community during this time.”

“On behalf of all of us in the NHRA family, we wish John nothing but the best in his continued recovery.”

July 5: Strength shows improvement

Less than two weeks after the accident, Force began showing positive responses to treatment for his traumatic brain injury, sternum fracture and wrist injury. He was moved from neurological intensive care to neurological acute care.

Despite ongoing cognitive and behavioral challenges, John Force Racing reported that the 16-time Funny Car champion’s ability to talk to his family and begin walking with assistance was encouraging.

July 9: Transferred from intensive care to rehabilitation center

After 15 days in intensive care at VCU Medical Center, Force was transferred to a neurological rehabilitation center via AirMed ambulance to continue treatment for his traumatic brain injury. John Force Racing reported that Force was experiencing cognitive and behavioral symptoms and periods of confusion despite being able to converse and celebrate his birthday with his family.

July 23: The force was discharged from the rehabilitation center

A month after the incident, Force was discharged from the Barrow Neurological Institute, where he had been undergoing rehabilitation for a traumatic brain injury (TBI).

Force is now continuing her outpatient treatment in California. Brittany Force shared on social media:

“Peace, Phoenix! After 30 days, my dad is finally returning home where we will continue outpatient therapy. These next steps toward recovery will definitely be a family effort! Here are some photos from our time in Phoenix.”