John Force faces 'long and difficult recovery' as he begins to overcome neurological hurdles, team says

John Force “began to show signs of improvement, according to family members who maintained a presence at the trauma hospital to which he was transported by air ambulance,” the legend's team said Sunday of the National Hot Rod Association.

John Force Racing has described the challenges the driver faced in the days following his horrific crash at the Virginia Nationals last weekend.

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John Force watches Top Fuel qualifying during the NHRA Virginia Nationals on June 22, 2024, at Virginia Motorsports Park in North Dinwiddie, Virginia. (Will Lester/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)

The team said Force failed to follow orders to open his eyes, squeeze his caregivers' hands and move his extremities early in his recovery from a traumatic brain injury (TBI). However, after he was transferred to the neurointensive care unit, the team said he “began to gain momentum.”

Force began responding to commands more consistently and opened his eyes on his fifth day in the hospital. He was able to whisper her name and give a thumbs up.

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John Force at the NHRA Virginia Nationals on June 23, 2024. Seconds later, Force suffered a massive explosion and crash and was taken to a local medical facility for treatment. (Will Lester/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)

“The biggest challenge has been managing his extreme agitation and confusion, which is causing him considerable distress,” the team added. “He repeatedly tried to get out of bed and was restrained; his doctors humorously described him as a raging bull. However, he recognized his daughters, his wife, Laurie, and called each of them by name . And said the words: 'I love you.' This, along with continued daily progress, boosted their morale. »

The team said Force, 75, still faced “a long and difficult recovery.”

“John’s family members express 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 across the automotive and racing industries. Thank you to the sponsors, fans and media for respecting the privacy of the Force family and members of the John Force Racing team. »

John Force looks out onto the track after the first round of qualifying for the 17th annual Toyota Nationals NHRA Mello Yello Drag Racing Series in Las Vegas. (David Allio/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)

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A “catastrophic engine failure” is believed to have been the cause of Force’s Funny Car accident last weekend. The engine exploded and Force crossed the central reservation of the track and hit the wall. His car then crossed the center line and hit the other wall.

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