NHRA drag racing legend John Force has been released from the neurological intensive care unit after suffering a traumatic brain injury in a fiery 300 mph crash at the Virginia Nationals last month.
The 75-year-old Force has been transferred from the neurological intensive care unit to the acute neurological care unit at the hospital. He was transported there by trauma helicopter on June 23, John Force Racing reported in a press release on Friday.
Force suffered a traumatic brain injury and other injuries, including a broken sternum, in the crash during the first lap of the Funny Car elimination round.
Force’s car suffered a catastrophic engine failure at the finish, crossing the center line and hitting the left concrete wall before swerving back into the right wall.
The team’s statement said Force continues to experience periods of confusion and that it is likely he will at some point be transferred to a long-term care facility that specializes in TBI and its symptoms.
John Force is now out of the neurological intensive care unit after suffering a traumatic brain injury
With the help of medical staff, he was able to talk and walk, but the press release said that “medical professionals reiterate that the road ahead will be long and difficult.”
Following a 300 mph crash during the Virginia Nationals at Virginia Motorsports Park on Sunday, Force was rushed to the hospital after his vehicle caught fire and he crashed into a wall, leading to terrifying scenes.
The 75-year-old was clocking a speed of 306.62mph over Terry Haddock in the right lane before the engine of his PEAK Chevy Camaro exploded during the high-speed race.
In 2007, Force was also seriously injured in a racing accident in Ennis, Texas, at age 58.
Force, 75, was taking a 306.62mph victory over Terry Haddock before the terrifying crash
He continued racing at the highest level, taking his second win of the season and his 157th NHRA victory at New Hampshire.
Force’s daughter, Brittany, is a two-time world champion.
An earlier update on June 30 reported that Force was showing “daily signs of improvement” and had opened his eyes for the first time since his crash.
He could also tell his family that he loved them.
“He recognized his daughters, his wife Laurie, and called them all by name. And spoke the words, ‘I love you.’ This, along with the continued daily progress, lifted their spirits,” the statement said.