Shocking moment car explodes at 306mph during NHRA Funny Car race leaving driver John Force in hospital
RACING driver John Force has been hospitalized following a terrifying 306mph fireball crash.
The 75-year-old was rushed from the track following the incident at an NHRA event in Virginia on Sunday.
Drag race legend Force was behind the wheel of a PEAK Chevy Camaro as he took on Terry Haddock in a high-speed run.
Force won the race after clocking an eye-watering 306.62mph at Virginia Motorsports Park.
As he crossed the line the engine on his Chevy exploded, per The Daily Mail.
The force sent Force’s car spinning across the track in a ball of flame, coming to rest by a concrete barrier.
Miraculously, the veteran driver was able to leave the car under his own steam.
“Force was alert and was examined onside by the NHRA Medical Team before being transported to a local medical facility for further evaluation,” an NHRA statement read.
“He’s one tough son of a b****, I know that. He’ll be back,” Force’s teammate Austin Prock told TSN Sports.
“It’s just tough to see somebody go through that. I hope he’s all right.
“Keep him in your thoughts and prayers. I know he’ll be back.”
“Wow.. incredible he survived that and at 75. Lifting him up in my prayers,” wrote one stunned fan on X after seeing the footage.
“I absolutely love John Force and his great family race team!” said another.
“It’s time, hang up your helmet. You’ve won everything. This should be it,” said a third.
Force began his drag racing career in 1978 and is a 16-time NHRA champion.
He has clocked a career-best speed of 337.16 mph and is the only driver in NHRA history to have won more than ten championships in his division.
Three weeks ago in New Hampshire, Force raced to his record 157th NHRA victory and second of the season.
My dad’s going to be alright.
Courtney Force
Back in 2007, the veteran racer suffered a broken ankle and dislocated wrist after being airlifted from a crash during the Fall Nationals in Ennis, Texas.
Force has three children who also compete in the race, with his daughter Courtney alongside him as he was taken to hospital on Sunday.
“My dad’s going to be all right,” she told Competition Plus, via Nine News.
“I was in the ambulance with him, holding his hand.
“He’s one of the toughest people I know. He’ll bounce back like he always does.”