The stakes are high, and the excitement is palpable as John Force heads to Las Vegas, embodying the spirit of a champion determined to rise once more.
In a testament to his indomitable spirit and dedication to the sport, NHRA drag racing icon John Force has received
the green light from his doctors to attend the highly anticipated Ford Performance NHRA Nationals, taking place
from November 1-3 at The Strip at Las Vegas Motor Speedway. This marks an important comeback for Force, who
has been recovering from a traumatic brain injury (TBI) sustained in a crash earlier this year.
With the event just around the corner, Force expressed his eagerness to support his three racing teams during this
pivotal moment in the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series. Two of his teams are in fierce contention for the
Funny Car championship, while his daughter, Brittany Force, is also showing promising form in her pursuit of Top
Fuel titles. “Vegas is close enough to home that [my wife] Laurie and I can drive over,” he said, reflecting on the
significance of the event not just for him, but for his entire racing family. “I want to show my support for our race
teams, the fans, and all our sponsors. They’ve stuck with me during a hard time, and I want them to know that I
haven’t forgotten them and I haven’t gone anywhere. I’ve just been doing my rehab, trying to stay strong.”
John Force’s journey has been anything but easy. Following the June 23 crash in Richmond, he faced the daunting
challenges of rehabilitation while grappling with the cumulative effects of decades spent competing at the highest
levels of motorsport. Over his remarkable 50-year career, Force has amassed an incredible 157 tour victories and 16
NHRA world championships, making him a true legend in drag racing. Yet, even a champion like Force must
confront the physical toll that the sport exacts on its competitors.
Before his accident, Force had already made a strong showing in the 2024 season, racking up two wins and putting
his Peak Antifreeze and Coolant Chevrolet team firmly in the championship hunt. After missing two races during his
recovery, the team returned to action in Brainerd with former world champion Jack Beckman stepping in to drive
the Peak Camaro. The decision proved fruitful, as Beckman clinched victory at the NHRA Midwest Nationals in St.
Louis on September 30, keeping the team’s championship hopes alive.
As the countdown to the championship approaches its climax, Force’s teams are locked in a fierce battle. Currently,
Beckman trails only teammate Austin Prock, who has emerged as a dominant force with seven wins in the Cornwell
Tools and AAA Chevrolet. The upcoming Las Vegas event represents a crucial opportunity for both teams to gain
ground in the standings and push toward ultimate glory.
The NHRA Nationals in Las Vegas is not just another race; it’s a celebration of resilience, passion, and community
within the drag racing world. For John Force, it symbolizes a return to the sport that has defined his life. His
presence will undoubtedly inspire both his teams and fans, serving as a reminder of the strength and tenacity that
characterize the world of motorsport.
In a recent video release, Force shared his first public comments since his accident, reflecting on his journey and
expressing gratitude for the unwavering support from his family, fans, and sponsors. As he prepares to hit the track
once again, the drag racing community eagerly awaits his return, ready to rally behind a true icon.
