RICHMOND, Va. — Legendary NHRA drag racer John Force was moved out of neuro-intensive care and into acute neuro care at a Richmond hospital, according to a release from John Force Racing.
A 16-time NHRA champion, Force was involved in a serious crash on June 23 at Virginia Motorsports Park when his Funny Car exploded and hit a concrete wall at over 300 mph. He was life-flighted to the hospital after the accident. According to the release, Force suffered a traumatic brain injury, a fractured sternum and a right wrist injury.
Force has spoken to medical staff, family members and team president Robert Hight since coming out of heavy sedation. The 75-year-old has begun walking with the assistance of hospital staff, the release said.
A June 30 update said Force could open his eyes, murmur his name and give a thumbs up five days following the crash.
Force will likely move to a long-term facility specializing in traumatic brain injuries, but no timetable has been determined.