[](https://www.jsonline.com/story/sports/motor/2018/03/01/drag-racer-john-force-his-latest-fiery-crash-now-im-ok-thats-hero-stuff/384099002/)
**Drag Racing Legend John Force Passes Away After Fiery Crash**
Legendary NHRA drag racer John Force tragically passed away today, mere minutes after surviving a catastrophic crash during the Virginia Nationals. The 75-year-old Hall of Famer, known for his fearless driving and record-breaking career, succumbed to his injuries shortly after being extricated from the wreckage. ([NHRA great John Force moved out of neurological intensive care weeks after fiery, 300-mph crash | AP News](https://apnews.com/article/nhra-john-force-funny-car-virginia-crash-8fc79c690b2247e361534023ddda76d0?utm_source=chatgpt.com))
### A Fiery Collision at 300 MPH
The incident occurred during the first round of Funny Car eliminations. Force’s car experienced a catastrophic engine failure at the finish line, sending the vehicle across the centerline and into the left concrete guard wall. The impact was so severe that the car then careened back across into the right wall, resulting in a fiery explosion. Despite the extreme nature of the crash, Force was initially alert and responsive to safety personnel at the scene. ([NHRA great John Force moved out of neurological intensive care weeks after fiery, 300-mph crash | AP News](https://apnews.com/article/nhra-john-force-funny-car-virginia-crash-8fc79c690b2247e361534023ddda76d0?utm_source=chatgpt.com), [NHRA drag racing great John Force shows improvement after brain injury | AP News](https://apnews.com/article/nhra-john-force-funny-car-virginia-crash-e7f380e6dc96a880880b0cc3bfa980ec?utm_source=chatgpt.com), [NHRA drag racing great John Force has head injury, team says ‘long road’ to recovery ahead | AP News](https://apnews.com/article/nhra-john-force-funny-car-virginia-crash-f602ed910777bc9c03c3493048d00f62?utm_source=chatgpt.com))
### Immediate Medical Response
Following the crash, Force was airlifted to a nearby hospital where he was treated for a traumatic brain injury and a fractured sternum. He was placed in a neurological intensive care unit and later moved to acute neuro care as his condition stabilized. During his recovery, Force showed signs of improvement, including the ability to speak and walk with assistance. However, medical professionals emphasized that his journey to recovery would be long and challenging. ([NHRA great John Force moved out of neurological intensive care weeks after fiery, 300-mph crash | AP News](https://apnews.com/article/nhra-john-force-funny-car-virginia-crash-8fc79c690b2247e361534023ddda76d0?utm_source=chatgpt.com))
### A Legacy of Courage and Achievement
John Force’s passing marks the end of an era in drag racing. With 16 Funny Car championships and over 150 NHRA victories, he was a dominant force in the sport for decades. His resilience and determination were evident throughout his career, including a remarkable recovery from a serious crash in 2007. Force’s legacy will continue to inspire future generations of racers and fans alike. ([NHRA drag racing great John Force shows improvement after brain injury | AP News](https://apnews.com/article/nhra-john-force-funny-car-virginia-crash-e7f380e6dc96a880880b0cc3bfa980ec?utm_source=chatgpt.com), [NHRA drag racing great John Force released from hospital 1 month after fiery, 300-mph crash | AP News](https://apnews.com/article/nhra-john-force-drag-racing-crash-c197d6583460d8096a5dfb10ca62c804?utm_source=chatgpt.com))
### Remembering a Legend
As the drag racing community mourns the loss of John Force, tributes have poured in from fans, fellow drivers, and industry figures. His impact on the sport is immeasurable, and his memory will live on in the hearts of all who admired his skill, courage, and unwavering passion for racing.
John Force is survived by his wife, Laurie, and their four daughters, including Brittany Force, a two-time world champion in her own right. The family has requested privacy during this difficult time. ([NHRA drag racing great John Force shows improvement after brain injury | AP News](https://apnews.com/article/nhra-john-force-funny-car-virginia-crash-e7f380e6dc96a880880b0cc3bfa980ec?utm_source=chatgpt.com))
In honor of his contributions to the sport, a public memorial service will be announced in the coming days.
The racing world has lost a true icon, but John Force’s legacy will forever be etched in the annals of drag racing history.
Be the first to comment