This past weekend marked a significant moment in the NHRA scene as 16-time Funny Car champion John Force made his much-anticipated return at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway. His daughter, Brittany Force, who drives the Monster Energy / HendrickCars.com Chevrolet Top Fuel dragster, shared an emotional message reflecting on the occasion after she secured the provisional No. 1 spot during the qualifying rounds.
Brittany’s performance was impressive, clocking in at 3.675 seconds with a speed of 336.74 mph, placing her in a strong position heading into the next sessions. However, the emotional weight of the weekend went beyond the numbers on the scoreboard. In an interview with the media, Brittany articulated the deep significance of her father’s presence at the track after a lengthy absence due to health issues.
“Coming into this weekend, we knew it was going to be special because my dad had planned to come out,” she said. “He drove up with my mom Friday morning, and I think everyone was looking forward to seeing him, especially me.” For Brittany, who has spent her entire life at racetracks, not having her father by her side had been a surreal experience. “I have grown up out here at these racetracks all over the country, but I have never been out here without him,” she noted, highlighting how unusual it felt since June to compete without her family nearby.
The reunion at the track was not just a personal milestone for Brittany; it symbolized the support of their racing family. “That’s why my team and everyone in John Force Racing feel like family. They feel like brothers to me. I’m lucky to have them and their support,” she expressed, emphasizing the close-knit bonds that are forged in the world of racing.
Brittany spoke highly of her father’s dedication to recovery, noting his commitment to physical therapy and his focus on returning to the sport he loves. “To have family back, have my dad back out here, I’m so excited for him,” she said. The emotional significance was evident as she remarked on how her father’s presence enhanced the atmosphere. “He’s been pushing himself, and we are really proud of him,” she added.
The experience of performing well while having her father watch from behind the car was particularly fulfilling for Brittany. “I’m happy to be out here with him and really proud to perform well and put a killer number on the board,” she remarked. Despite not being able to complete a perfect run in the last session, the thrill of competing alongside her father was a triumph in itself.
Moreover, the simple act of her father wishing her luck before the race was profoundly moving for Brittany. “I wasn’t nervous. It’s just the normal nerves that come with it. When my dad came over and wished me good luck, it meant more than anything for me.” His encouragement served as a reminder of the strong familial bonds that underpin their racing careers.
In essence, the weekend not only marked John Force’s return to racing but also underscored the powerful connections within the Force family and their racing community. For Brittany, having her father back at the racetrack brought a renewed sense of purpose and emotional fulfillment, showcasing the enduring legacy of their shared passion for drag racing.
