75-Year-Old John Force Alert After Fiery Crash At Virginia Motorsports Park

Dinwiddie, Virginia – NHRA legend John Force was aware and speaking with safety personnel shortly after a fiery 300-mph crash Sunday at Virginia Motorsports Park.

According to John Force Racing, the 75-year-old Force was checked on the track by the NHRA Medical Team before being flown by medical helicopter to a facility for further evaluation.

Force | AP News image

75-Year-Old John Force Alert After Fiery Crash At Virginia Motorsports Park

During the first round of Funny Car eliminations, the engine exploded near the finish line, sending Force’s car across the centerline and into the left concrete guard wall before moving back into the right wall.

Force won his record 157th NHRA race three weeks ago in New Hampshire, his second of the season. Force, 58, was severely injured in a racing accident in Ennis, Texas, in 2007.

Force | Racer Image

75-Year-Old John Force Alert After Fiery Crash At Virginia Motorsports Park

“We are keeping our friend John Force in our thoughts and prayers.” “He’s one tough cookie,” Tony Stewart, a former NASCAR driver who competed in the NHRA’s Top Fuel class, commented on social media.

Long after Force’s injury, teammate Austin Prock won the Funny Car class, defeating Bob Tasca III in the final round.

“(The trophy) is going straight to the hospital to John Force,” Prock remarked from the winners’ circle.

Force | Auto Week Image

75-Year-Old John Force Alert After Fiery Crash At Virginia Motorsports Park

“It’s difficult to see someone go through that, especially if it’s someone you care about, but I know he’ll come back.” We’re racecar drivers, and we need to turn the switch. John wanted us out here doing rounds, and I’m delighted we performed our job.”

SOURCE – (AP)