Hall of Fame drag racer John Force was hurt Sunday afternoon when his car exploded at the finish line at Virginia Motorsports Park, the National Hot Rod Association said.
The extent of the 75-year-old Force’s injuries was not immediately released. He was taken to an area hospital for treatment.
“During the first round of Funny Car eliminations at the PlayNHRA Virginia Nationals on Sunday at Virginia Motorsports Park, John Force’s Funny Car suffered an engine explosion at the finish line and then crossed the centerline, striking both guard walls before coming to a stop,” HHRA said in a statement. “Force was alert and was examined onsite by the NHRA Medical Team before being transported to a local medical facility for further evaluation.”
The crash came on the final day of the Virginia Nationals series. It was the first time the race had been held at the track on U.S. Route 1 since 2020.
Video from NHRA showed Force’s car as it burst into flames while crossing the finish line. It then veered out of control across the track before it struck a Jersey wall.
When the car exploded, it was traveling an estimated 300 mph.