John Force Racing Overcomes Tragedy to Shine in 2024 NHRA Season
John Force Racing has displayed resilience in the 2024 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series, despite a devastating accident that marked one of the team’s most challenging seasons. As they prepare for the In-N-Out Burger NHRA Finals at Pomona Dragstrip, the team carries the weight of a year defined by both heartbreak and triumph.
In June, John Force, a 16-time NHRA champion and the backbone of John Force Racing, suffered a severe brain injury in a crash at Virginia Motor Sports Park. The accident forced Force into extensive rehabilitation, sidelining him from competition and leaving the team to navigate the season without their leader.
During Force’s recovery, Jack Beckman stepped into the PEAK Chevrolet Funny Car, helping the team stay competitive. The incident took an emotional toll, affecting the team’s morale and dynamics. However, when Force made his emotional return at Las Vegas, his presence provided a significant lift to the team.
Brittany Force, John’s daughter, ended a nearly two-year winless streak with her 17th career Top Fuel victory in Las Vegas. Reflecting on her win, Brittany said, “Having my dad here for the first time since his crash wasn’t about pressure; it was about heart. Every single person on the team gave it everything they had.”
Meanwhile, Austin Prock delivered a standout performance in the Funny Car division. Prock broke John Force’s record for the most No. 1 qualifying positions in a single season, solidifying his reputation as a rising star. His 12th career win in Las Vegas positioned him as a strong contender for his first Funny Car championship.
“This season has been an emotional rollercoaster,” Prock shared. “John’s accident was a tough time for everyone, but we also achieved incredible success. It’s been a year of extremes.”
Despite the challenges, John Force Racing’s perseverance has been evident. Each team member stepped up, transforming a season marked by adversity into one filled with remarkable achievements. The victories in Las Vegas showcased the collective determination and spirit of the team, underscoring their commitment to keeping their dreams alive.
As they head to Pomona, John Force Racing remains focused on finishing the season strong, proving that resilience and teamwork can overcome even the toughest obstacles.
