As the 2024 NHRA season heats up, all eyes will be on Force as he looks to prove that no matter how many miles are on the odometer, there’s always room for one more victory lap.
Legendary NHRA drag racer John Force is making waves again, setting his sights on two of the biggest events of the 2024 season: the Las Vegas Nationals and the season-ending Auto Club Finals in Pomona. After a series of challenges in the previous seasons, the 16-time Funny Car world champion is determined to reclaim his place at the top of the NHRA standings, and both of these iconic races are pivotal in his quest for redemption and glory.
A Resilient Racer Returns to Form.
John Force’s career has been nothing short of legendary, with over 150 career wins and countless accolades to his name. His record-breaking feats and sheer dominance have etched him into the fabric of motorsport history. However, recent years have seen the racing icon face setbacks, from mechanical issues to fierce competition from younger drivers. But at 75, Force remains as driven and competitive as ever, determined to silence any doubters who believe age has diminished his abilities.
Force has notched up a few near-wins in recent seasons, showing that he still has the raw speed and mental fortitude required to compete at the highest level. Now, with his sights set on Las Vegas and Pomona, he’s focusing all of his energy on delivering a strong finish to the season. For a driver with his experience, these events represent an opportunity not only to secure vital points but to add another storied chapter to his illustrious career.
Las Vegas: The High Stakes Showdown.
The NHRA Nevada Nationals in Las Vegas are known for their high-energy atmosphere and high-stakes racing. For Force, the Las Vegas event is a chance to reassert himself as a contender. The track’s long, wide lanes allow for some of the fastest runs in NHRA history, and Force knows that his team has the power to compete at this level. With his daughter Courtney Force now out of active competition, John has taken on the dual role of mentor and competitor, working closely with his team and focusing on getting every ounce of performance out of his car.
Vegas also has a special place in Force’s heart, as it’s been the site of some of his greatest triumphs. A win here would provide not only a massive confidence boost but also a significant leap in the points race, keeping him in the hunt for a championship, even as he faces tough competition from younger drivers like Robert Hight, Ron Capps, and others.
Pomona: The Final Showdown.
The season finale at Auto Club Raceway in Pomona is the crown jewel of the NHRA calendar, and for Force, it holds even more weight. Known for its history and electric atmosphere, Pomona has been the site of many of Force’s most memorable victories, and the track holds sentimental value for him and his fans. The Auto Club Finals is not just the final race of the season—it’s the event that can define a career.
With the pressure mounting, Force is looking to finish the year on a high note, showing that he still has the fire that made him a dominant force in Funny Car. After all, it was at Pomona where he first established himself as a drag racing legend, and his ability to perform under pressure has only become sharper with age. With the season championship often on the line at Pomona, Force has his eyes firmly set on finishing the season with a victory. A win here would be a fitting conclusion to a season filled with both highs and lows, solidifying his legacy even further.
A New Chapter for John Force Racing.
While Force’s individual goals are clear, his focus isn’t solely on his personal achievements. He’s dedicated to supporting his team, including his daughter Brittany Force, a top contender in the Top Fuel category, and his son-in-law Robert Hight, who has become one of the top Funny Car drivers in the sport. Together, they form a racing dynasty that continues to leave its mark on the sport.
Force has always said that his passion for racing comes from his desire to compete at the highest level, and even as the seasons roll on, he continues to inspire and push the boundaries of what’s possible. His comeback at Las Vegas and Pomona is more than just a return to the track—it’s a reminder that in the world of motorsports, legends never truly fade. They keep racing, keep pushing, and always aim for the next win.
