FILE – NHRA Funny Car driver John Force waves to the crowd during driver introductions prior to day three of the NHRA Mile High Nationals at Bandimere Speedway on July 24, 2016. (Photo by Michael Reaves/The Denver Post via Getty Images)
The 75-year-old was examined at the Virginia Motorsports Park track by the NHRA Medical Team before being transported by medical helicopter to a facility for further evaluation.
The engine exploded Force’s car at the finish line during the first round of Funny Car eliminations, sending the vehicle across the centerline and striking the left concrete guard wall, then careening back across into the right wall, according to the Associated Press.
On Sunday, long after Force’s accident, teammate Austin Prock won the Funny Car division, topping Bob Tasca III in the final round.
“It’s just tough to see somebody go through that, especially when it’s somebody you really care about, but I know he’ll be back. We’re race car drivers and we have to flip the switch. I know John wanted us to be out here, going rounds and I’m glad we did our job.”
