Few names resonate as profoundly in motorsports as John Force. This year, the U.S. Nationals at Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park, sponsored by Toyota, hold a bittersweet note as it coincides with Force’s sad absence. The event, a prelude to the Countdown, is without Force due to a traumatic brain injury he sustained in a near-fatal accident near Richmond, Virginia.

John Force, a titan of the drag racing world, has left an indelible mark on the U.S. Nationals, clinching five Funny Car victories and competing a staggering 43 times. His presence has been a constant at what he once described as “the biggest drag race in the world”.

This year, however, his PEAK Chevy Camaro is under the capable hands of 2012 Funny Car champion, Jack Beckman, as Force focuses on recovery.

The absence of the racer has echoed throughout the racing community, with fellow racer Ron Capps expressing a poignant acknowledgement of Force’s impact.

“Already we’re getting a glimpse of NHRA without John Force,” Capps reflected via Autoweek. “Throughout history, we’ve had these heroes/icons of the sport that have pretty much carried the sport through certain periods of its time, going way back.

“And certainly, when you look back years from now, you’re going to see that Snake and The Mongoose and Don Garlits and ‘The Greek’ [Chris Karamesines] and ‘The Ace,’ you’re just talking about all the people that have had a stamp on NHRA’s history.

“It’s hard to top what John Force has done, and it’s very strange not having him around at the racetrack, for me, especially, as tight as we’ve been and how much he’s meant to me as a person on and off the racetrack.

“But [he’s] a foe, as well. It’s been some unbelievable match-ups. Every time we come up, it’s interesting to hear the people on TV talk about how many times we’ve met before, whether it’s a final round or for championships or just head-to-head. It’s a lot.

“So we hope to have him back.”

Capps, deeply influenced by Force both on and off the track, shared his anticipation for Force’s return, prioritizing his friend’s health above all.

“Everyone’s on pins and needles, just wondering when he’ll get back out,” he added. “But for me, it’s going to be a great sight the first time we have him back at the racetrack, whether it’s just hanging out or riding around on the scooter and coming up and talking to me on a Friday before our first qualifying run.”

Stepping into Force’s shoes, Jack Beckman is optimistic about making a strong showing at this year’s Nationals.

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.