John Force Shows Signs of Improvement After Horrific Crash

NHRA legend John Force has shown signs of improvement after suffering a traumatic brain injury in a crash last weekend. His team says he has begun to respond to commands and open his eyes.

John Force has shown signs of improvement after suffering a traumatic brain injury in a horrific crash last weekend, according to his team.

The National Hot Rod Association legend was involved in a massive accident at the Virginia Nationals last weekend when his Funny Car experienced a catastrophic engine failure. The explosion caused Force to drive across the median of the track and into the wall. His car then veered back across the centerline and into the other wall.

John Force Shows Signs of Improvement After Horrific Crash

Force was airlifted to a trauma hospital, where he was diagnosed with a traumatic brain injury (TBI). In the days following the crash, Force's team said he failed to adhere to commands to open his eyes, squeeze the hands of his care personnel and move his extremities.

However, upon his move to the neuro intensive care unit, the team said he "began to gain some momentum." Force started to respond to commands more consistently and opened his eyes on his fifth day in the hospital. He was able to whisper his name and give a thumbs up.

John Force Shows Signs of Improvement After Horrific Crash

"The biggest challenge has been managing his extreme agitation and confusion, which causes him significant distress," the team added. "He has repeatedly tried to get out of bed and has been restrained; his doctors have humorously described him as a raging bull. However, he recognized his daughters, wife, Laurie, and called them each by name. And spoke the words, ‘I love you.’ This, along with continued daily progress has uplifted their spirits."

The team said Force, 75, still faces a "long and difficult recovery ahead."

John Force Shows Signs of Improvement After Horrific Crash

"John’s family members extend their deepest gratitude to the medical professionals responsible for his well-being and recovery," the team said. "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."

Catastrophic engine failure was said to be the cause of Force’s crash last weekend. The engine exploded and caused Force to drive across the median of the track and into the wall. His car then veered back across the centerline and into the other wall.

Force is a 16-time NHRA Funny Car champion and is considered one of the greatest drag racers of all time. He has won more than 150 NHRA national events and has been inducted into the International Motorsports Hall of Fame.

Force's crash is a reminder of the dangers of drag racing. Drag racing is a high-speed sport that requires drivers to have quick reflexes and a lot of experience. Even the most experienced drivers can be involved in accidents.

Force's family and friends are hoping for a full recovery. They are grateful for the support of the NHRA community and the fans.