**Legendary NHRA Driver John Force Released from Hospital One Month After Fiery Crash**
*April 22, 2025 – Gainesville, FL* — One of drag racing’s most iconic figures, 16-time NHRA Funny Car champion **John Force**, has been released from the hospital nearly a month after a terrifying crash shook the motorsport community. The 74-year-old legend was discharged from UF Health Shands Hospital in Gainesville, Florida, where he had been receiving intensive care and rehabilitation following the fiery accident that occurred during the NHRA Gatornationals on March 23.
### **The Crash That Stunned the Sport**
Force’s crash happened in the second round of eliminations at the Gatornationals. His Funny Car reportedly suffered a catastrophic engine failure just past half-track, veering violently into the guardrail and bursting into flames. Safety crews responded within seconds, extinguishing the fire and extracting Force from the wreckage. Although conscious at the time, Force was airlifted to UF Health due to the severity of his injuries and age.
The crash stunned fans and racers alike. Force, known for his resilience and fearless nature, had cheated death on more than one occasion throughout his career. Still, this incident was one of the most serious he has endured.
### **A Grueling Road to Recovery**
Following the crash, Force was treated for multiple injuries, including fractured ribs, burns, and a concussion. Early reports confirmed he was in stable condition, but doctors emphasized the need for prolonged observation given his age and medical history.
Over the past four weeks, Force underwent a rigorous recovery regimen. According to sources close to the family, he spent time in both the intensive care and rehabilitation units, working daily with specialists to regain strength and mobility. Despite the physical toll, those around him said his spirit remained unbreakable.
“He’s a fighter, always has been,” said daughter and fellow NHRA driver **Brittany Force**. “There were moments we were scared, but if anyone was going to come through this, it was Dad. He’s been through hell on the track before and came out swinging every time.”
### **A Hero’s Welcome and a Grateful Heart**
When Force was finally released from the hospital this week, he was met with cheers from medical staff and family members. Wearing a neck brace and sporting visible signs of his injuries, he still managed to flash a thumbs-up and a smile, thanking the hospital team for their care.
“God was riding with me that day,” Force said in a brief statement released by **John Force Racing**. “I don’t remember everything, but I’m thankful for the safety crews, the doctors, and my family. I’m lucky to be alive.”
He also acknowledged the outpouring of support from fans across the world, saying, “The love and prayers meant the world to me. I’ve felt it every day. You guys kept me going.”
### **What’s Next for John Force?**
While Force is officially out of the hospital, his recovery is far from over. Doctors have recommended several more months of outpatient therapy and rest. For now, Force is expected to remain in Florida, close to medical support and family, before potentially returning home to California.
The question on everyone’s mind now is: will John Force race again?
It’s a question he hasn’t answered directly, but those who know him aren’t ruling it out. “It’s hard to keep him away from the track,” said longtime friend and rival **Ron Capps**. “He’s got racing in his blood. But we all just want him to focus on healing.”
### **A Living Legend**
With over 150 career wins and a personality as bold as his paint schemes, John Force is not just a racer — he is a larger-than-life figure who helped define and elevate NHRA drag racing for over four decades. He has survived numerous crashes, including a near-fatal incident in 2007, and has continued to compete and win well into his 70s.
His influence on the sport is profound, mentoring generations of drivers — including his daughters — and growing John Force Racing into a powerhouse team in both the Funny Car and Top Fuel categories.
### **A Nation Cheers His Recovery**
As the NHRA season continues, the racing world is breathing a collective sigh of relief at the news of Force’s release. Tributes and well-wishes have poured in from fans, drivers, and motorsports legends across the globe.
“John Force is the heart of drag racing,” said NHRA President Glen Cromwell. “His recovery is not just a win for his family — it’s a victory for the entire sport. We look forward to the day we see him back at the track, whether behind the wheel or in the pit.”
For now, fans are content knowing that their hero is alive, healing, and still full of fire — just the kind that burns within.
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