NHRA Legend Pays Impassioned Tribute to John Force at US National Championships – End of an Era
Few names have been more influential in motorsports than John Force. This year’s Toyota-sponsored U.S. Nationals at Indianapolis’ Lucas Oil Park will be bittersweet with the tragic loss of Force. The event, a prelude to Countdown, was canceled due to a brain injury he suffered in a near-fatal accident near Richmond, Virginia.
Drag racing champion John Force has left an indelible mark at the US Nationals with five Funny Car wins and an impressive 43 races. His stay at what he once called “the greatest drag race in the world” has been ongoing.
This year, however, his PEAK Chevy Camaro is in the strong hands of 2012 Funny Car winner Jack Beckman, while Force focuses on recovery.
The driver’s loss has reverberated throughout the racing community, with fellow racer Ron Capps expressing deep appreciation for Force’s impact.
“For now, we’re seeing NHRA without John Force,” Capps reflected via Autoweek. Throughout history, we have had these sports heroes/icons that have carried the sport for a number of times. came back Of course, when you look back years later, you see Snake and Mongoose and Don Garlitt and The Greek [Chris Karamsins] and Ace, talking about everybody. has left a mark on NHRA history.
It’s very difficult for me to see what John Force does and it’s very strange that he’s not around the race track, but it’s like we used to be and he means a lot to me as a person. up, out of the way is important. .
He added: “But [he] is also an enemy. It’s an amazing couple of fights. Every time we come out, it’s good to hear people talking on TV for so many times. where we met before, whether it was the last round or not for the championship or just a face. It’s too much.
So we’re hoping for him to come back.”
Capps, who has been impressed with Force on and off the court, expressed his hopes for Force’s return and that his friend’s health is above all else. “Everybody’s on pins and needles and just wondering when they’re going to come back,” he added. But for me, the first time we get back on the road is a great sight, whether it’s hanging or riding a scooter and come and talk to me on Friday before our first qualifying race. ”
Jack Beckman, entering for the Army, is thinking about a strong showing at the world championships this year.
Reflecting on the last U.S. Nationals he raced in 2020, Beckman recalled:
“There were four national events at Indy but only one U.S. Nationals, and I left with the trophy.” Fast forwarding to today, he’s piloting what he considers “the baddest race car in the pits,” aiming to clinch a victory as a tribute not just to his capabilities but to his legendary car owner, John Force.
While the racing team carries on, the void left by Force’s absence is palpable. His storied career and personal battle with his recent health challenges have left everyone rooting for not just his recovery but also a celebratory return.
As this season’s U.S. Nationals unfold without one of its most celebrated champions, we’ll make sure we spare a thought for one of the greats and his quick recovery.
