John Force is showing ‘daily signs of improvement’ and has opened his eyes for the first time since his shocking 300mph crash last week.
A statement from John Force Racing on Sunday said: “After days of failed attempts, his wife and daughters were overcome with emotion as he muttered his name ‘John Force’ and later, when prompted, gave a thumbs up.”
The statement also said Force, 75, was able to tell his family he loves them.
But there were warnings about Force’s condition amid the positive update, with the statement saying he faces a difficult recovery ahead.
“The biggest challenge is managing his extreme agitation and confusion, which causes him great distress,” the statement said. “He repeatedly tried to get out of bed and was restrained; his doctors have humorously described him as a raging bull.
‘Despite the welcome progress, the 157-time Tour winner still faces a long and difficult recovery. He will remain in neuro-intensive care for the foreseeable future, with visits limited to immediate family members.’
After a 300 mph crash during the Virginia Nationals at Virginia Motorsports Park on Sunday, Force was rushed to the hospital after his vehicle caught fire and he crashed into a wall. All this led to terrifying scenes.
The 75-year-old achieved a speed of 306.62 mph against Terry Haddock in the right lane before the engine of his PEAK Chevy Camaro exploded during the high-speed race.
A few days later, it was announced that Force had been transferred from the trauma intensive care unit in Richmond to the neurointensive care unit, where treatment for his head injury would be the “primary care.”
Sunday’s statement continued: ‘John’s family members express their deepest gratitude to the medical professionals responsible for his well-being and recovery.
“They greatly appreciate the overwhelming outpouring of heartfelt messages, prayers, support and concern from across the automotive and racing industries.”
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