On this episode of "The Rick Mast Show," Rick discusses John Force's injury & negative comments on social media. #nascar #racing #rickmast #johnforce #nhra ***thumbnail photo courtesy of John Force Racing
John Force at 75 still has more talent in his little finger than all these armchair quarterbacks have in their whole body combined. He's still doing it because it's what he loves and he's damn good at it.
The way that car straightened out after he hit that left wall makes me believe that he was driving that car or else it was an absolute miracle. The man's still got it.
John Force has been Drag Racing for 46 years since 1978 he's a Living Legend he can do what ever makes him happy. Prayers for a Speedy recovery 🙏🏻 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻❤️💯
John Force is the main reason I still watch drag racing. He’s a legend of the sport and should be respected and treated as such. People that leave negative comments simply have no life.
I don’t know what comments you’re reading dude, but I’ve seen no one say anything close to that. In fact, most people of been absolutely supportive and worried about the guy. And I’m talking 99.9% of the posts I seen. And comments. Are you telling me you found one crazy asshole out there in the world and you made a video about it? …and then you went ahead and made a click bait title? I think you might be looking for a little clout or pot stirring yourself, there friend.
I'll be one of those people that post a comment you might not like....I think he might be more than a bit selfish in his decisions to keep racing...He was healthy, He has plenty of money, He has a beautiful family he loves spending time with and should be proud of, His grandkids need his presence, his experience, his wisdom, his love....He might have just taken that away from them.....WHY????
Thanks Rick Mast for saying what a lot of us are thinking. John Force is motorsports legend and now is not the time for ugly comments on social media. Let's pray that John has a 100% recovery.
Didn’t Big Daddy make a +300 mph pass at age 85? Most of the Force naysayers would pew pew themselves at 125. John was doing what he loved, and doing it well. Pushing the envelope, not just out for a Sunday drive. Sometimes, the envelope bites back; happens to us all. Respect, John and Rick.
This " doing what he loved " is a complete crock of shit - Jr hates it when people say this about his dad and I don't blame him - saying this does one thing - makes whoever says that nonsense feel better -;that's it -
His numerical age may be 75, but does he act like he's 75? NO! He's active, in good physical shape, he works out regularly. He has to pass a physical and other tests every year to keep a pro license in NHRA. Thank you for this message to those that weren't taught manners or humanity - they know no better. As Kelly Crandall said yesterday "Social media has changed everyone's ego." I'll add to that, and obviously morals, by some of the things people are saying.
I'm gonna say it.......but a clear example about age is just a number is look at the most common public image characters in the US, Trump v biden. There's a massive difference in charisma with two people around the same age.
John Force has been a bad ass racer for over 50 years and even if he died in that car he went out doing what he loved. He’s worked his ass off to be the best ever and he still loves doing it. I hope he can come back to finish out the season
My Hats Off to John Force for at 75 Years Young, doing what HE LOVES to do! I'm 59, two months away from turning 60, I still Ride My Quads Like I'm 27 Years Old, I Still Enjoy Hitting Bearms, Jumps, and what have you. Back in 2023 I Crashed, and Broke 5 Ribs, Punctured A Lung, and Broke my Cervical (Collar bone) I was out for the Year. Now it it 2024...I'm BACK Bitches! I Owe it All to this Man... John Force. I Watched his Wreck from 2007, over and over. and Watched Him Come Back from that, I said to myself, you got nothing, get fixed, get well , and get back to work, things will be better. And Now I am Back! Better than Before, thanks to John Force! Drag Racing is not like a lot of other sports. How many People have Life Threatening Accidents in Tennis? Hockey, ect... In Nascar, NHRA, IRL, Ect... You make the wrong move, the Car Goes out and Does Something it Shouldn't, and ...BAM, there is A CRASH! Sometimes not Life Threatening, But enough to take that Driver Out of the Game for Awhile. I Should Saw that I also Drag Race, and I have met John Force, and his Family at Several Drag Strips. They Have Always Been The Nicest People You Would Ever Meet! Get Well John Force!!
Ernest Hemmingway made the statement: "There are only three sports, Mountain Climbing, Bull Fighting and Motor Racing. Everything else is just a game." I'm 71 and still racing motocross.
I agree but his reaction time is no longer as fast as when he was 25. Perhaps he could have corrected the direction of the car after the blast and avoided hitting the wall if he had been younger.
I'm 65 years old, I have been a John Force fan from the very beginning. I wish him the best and pray for his recovery. I was an amateur drag racer for over 40 years. I built my own cars. But a few years ago, physical disabilities made me decide to give it up. It was no longer enjoyable, I did not have good control of the car off the line, and I was no longer able to work on my car. I still love cars and driving, so I had my race car highly modified to make it drivable on the street. John Force did not have the medical problems I had. If I were John Force, would I have continued racing at his age? I honestly don't know. But I have nothing but admiration and respect for him. He has been my idol for decades, and continues to be. Hang in there John.
His age has nothing to do with what happened. Like you said at 75 he was still getting it done and whooping everyone's ass!! Give someone a screen and a keyboard they suddenly become experts in all things! You said it perfect Rick...they can kiss all of our sorry asses! I just hope John can make a full recovery and if he doesn't get to race again, atleast have a good quality of life. He is a larger than life personality and my prayers are with him and his family!!
John Force has gotten what was coming to him!!! A long winning career. A Great Family. Admiration and respect that goes way way beyond even the racing world in general. Hope he has a 100% recovery and then does as he pleases!
Watched my father in law every Saturday night in a dirt car he was 80, didn't win alot but he had fun, I don't care if John wins another race he is a legend and can race as long as he wants he will still be my favorite.
Wowwww!!! A blast from my past, it's Rick Mast!! Oh the memories of watching the #1 car on TV and at the track! As far as your commentary on the current situation. Does it make a difference whether he's 75 or 25? Yes, for decades John Force has lived life on the edge. This isn't his first major wreck. Lord willing, it will be his last. I've met John. He's one hell of a character. For decades he has entertained me just by having the balls and talent to go screaming down a racetrack like his hair was on fire. Don't pay internet trolls a second's worth of your time. They're not worth it. They hide behind anonymity and wouldn't dare say the same thing to your face. To John, heal quickly, but heal fully. What you do after is your choice. Either way, thank you for a lifetime of entertainment and memories!!
Wow. So glad I don't do much social media. John Force is one of the most important racers of this and the last generation. Anyone able to perform at the top level of a profession (racing or otherwise) at his age is to be used in an uplifting way to say 'if he can do it, I should try'. The same crash with a 25 year old professional would still be horrific and could have ended very badly. Thanks to NHRA and the Safety Safari and the hospital for all they have done to try to help keep an icon of the racing industry in good shape. Prayers for John and Family. And anyone who feels otherwise, go [censored] yourself!
john is out there because this is what keeps him young and vibrant , his passion for what he does at his age is amazing !! John's experience behind the wheel is more valuable at 75 years old than someone 25 years old who only has a few years under their belt !! I believe John will know when it is time for him to stop , he's not going to continue to drive if he knows in his heart that he can't do it anymore because of any physical issues . He's not going to go out there and create a situation where he could get someone else hurt , I believe he has too much respect for his competitors well being . You can see that from his reactions when someone else has been in an accident , he is always concerned about there wellbeing and safety !! John is one tough individual and I'm just amazed at what I'm seeing him do at 75years old , these cars are animals to drive . I wish John a complete recovery with no adverse effects from this incident . Many are praying for you John !!!!!
Way to bring it Rick!!!! Always knew you were a Hard Pipe Hittin' Mother FR. John Force is a legend!!! Whether you like him or not we all should be supporting him at this time!!! Thank you Rick Mast.
Brilliant response Rick! Thanks! Been watching John race since the early 80's on The Nashville Network Diamond P Sports broadcasts. He's the last of his kind still racing. He's the kind of guy I want watching my back and not in front of me. One of my favorite answers by John was when he was having a bad weekend, but won his elimination round. Steve Evans asked him how it felt getting the win light and John said "I must of done something wrong, all weekend all I've done is be upside down, backwards and on fire. How did I get a win light?"
John Force is my hero!!! I'm 73 and still going to track days once a month in my Miata. I ride a 750 Shadow motorcycle and I guess if get hurt I guess I just got what I deserve. So be it. John knew the chance he took and he got to do what he loves longer than most sports players. John you are in my prayers.
Most people in their 20's would be LUCKY to have the reaction times that Force has, they would be lucky to hand John his helmet and gloves as he straps in.
Thanks Herm for reposting this, and thank you Mr. Rick Mast for saying what a lot of us are thinking. Don’t understand the hate and miserable lives people lead to celebrate someone else suffering a hardship. Prayers for John to have quick healing. I’ve been thinking this week what if this means he has to retire from being in the car. I hope not, but he’ll do what is best for himself, his family and his team. Praying hard for him, his family and his medical team.
John is an old school tough man and if he is able to still get it done then God bless him! You can either get old and roll over or you can be like John and keep it going hard as long as possible. I say i would rather go out doing what i love rather then sitting around waiting to die!!!
Yeah and he knows the risks and has seen many fatalities up close and in person. It’s part of drag racing at 300+!mph and he loves doing it! Doesn’t matter if you are 25 or 75, it can happen to any driver at any time
@@helpful5539 he has brains clearly and knew what he was doing. He was enjoying life! He was still winning so why not keep doing what you love doing? The alternative is to retire and sit around on the recliner day in and day out watching tv game shows and waiting to have a heart attack 🥱
He has gotten what is coming to him. Fame Fortune A great family, both close and extended The Respect and Admiration of his peers The Blessing to do what he Loves for so long Yeah, John got just what he deserves and I wish him a Speedy and Complete Recovery, because he deserves that too.
You are Right On Rick. John Force has earned the right to continue in the sport. It is in his blood. His DNA. That accident was of no fault of his skills. He still competes with the best and wins. I am 73 and I know I could still out drive most youngsters I know. So John will do what he wants to do and that is his right. God Bless and Get Well Soon.
If John would have passed in that crash at least he would have been doing what he loves. I wish John well and hope he heals to enjoy the rest of his time.
Rick Mast, well said!!! And I personally have seen some of the vile comments you speak of! It is TOTALLY uncalled for!!! Sending prayers for John and the Force family...🙏
No one deserves this. If he is physically, mentally able to compete than more power to him. I am sure if there was any doubt that NHRA would not let him compete. Best wishes and prayer's to him and his family.🙏🙏
My career in NHRA Championship Drag Racing began before Force started. I have known him for years and I can tell you he is one of the nicest, kindness men in the sport. He loves to help other racers that don't have the funding needed to compete at the top level. I have seen him literally give the shirt off of his back. He is so much more than many people realize. His heart is pure, and he is truly one of the people I constantly look up too. He is tough and he will come through this, but let this be a reminder, to appreciate him today. When kids today need a real American Hero to look up to, there is none better than Mr. John Force, The NHRA World Champ.
I agree. My late husband was a big fan. The year before he died our son took him to Bristol’s NHRA at Thunder Valley and he managed to get his father where he met John Force and get a picture made with him. Said it made his year and John was so gracious.
I have been watching John Force for a long time. Not since 1978, but still well before his first win driving the Castrol Olds, his first championship of the 15 storied ones that he has gotten. I will say, that man is probably the most full of live in the sport today, bar none. As a racer we all know the risks associated when we strap ourselves in a car, we know what can happen, or what we could face as an outcome. We accept those risks because we love our choice of motorsports what ever it might be. And to be doing it at the age of 75? God bless that man. Many prayers for him to get better and back on the track as soon as he can.
People on social media are cruel because they can hide in their basement and avoid getting punched in the throat. 90% would never run their mouth if the other person was standing in front of them…
I went to bat for John (verbally) back in 2002? 2003? in Phoenix, after yet another blower sneeze, John had won the round but had no body for the car and was in a scramble trying to source one. A fan was badgering him because he wouldn't stop to sign some autographs. I yelled back at the guy and reminded him that he was "a tad bit busy at the moment". John simply looked my way, pointed at me and said "hey, thanks" and went on his way.
He's doing more than most people can do at that age. He's able, and better than most in his class. Hat's off to John prayers for you and your family. Get well soon.
I hope he recovers fully. I think of Evel Knievel and Robbie. They knew the risks, and accepted them. Great legacies, but they sure broke a lot of bones! It's a high risk sport. I was amazed to see John awake and alert, as they were putting him into the ambulance. Positive thoughts are with him.🙂
John Force still brings it to every race. His reaction time hasn’t slowed, and he’s a fan favorite year after year! Living legend and my prayers for him to make a full recovery
I guess I don't understand the word deserve. John Force is the best there has ever been. Earned every bit of it. Has lived his passion and enjoyed the fruits of his labor. It has been a joy watching him perform at the highest level. Get well John!
Agreed Rick Mast. Negative comments made on social media is a reflection of poor character. John Force is a living legend and has a passion for racing bigger than life! His reaction time and driving skills are still at the professional level needed to compete. An explosion like he had happens regularly in top fuel. No way can you drive a car at 300 plus after exploding like John's did. Most of the negative comments on social media more than likely come from those who haven't even driven a car, or have had the guts to speak face to face with a guy like John.
If the NHRA had Safe soft Barriers. His injuries would be a lot less . 🙏🏼Keep the prayers going for John. 🙏🏼 He is the Richard Petty of Drag Racing. 🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆 Thank you for keeping it real and Honest K.W #1
John-John ain't too old. If he is old, what would they call Chris “the Greek” Karamesines? He's like 92 yrs old. And he still drives in the NHRA. Kids today need to learn some manners and some respect. John-John knows drag racing better than most. He and John Medlen, Eric Medlen's father. Have designed devices, equipment to protect drivers. AND THAT is why John-John Force is alive today. And no, he doesn't sell those things. John-John and John GIVE them to ALL the teams in the NHRA. So no one else has to die, as Eric Medlen did. He'll recover, Laurie will make sure of it.
Rick you said it perfectly! Not all people in there 70’s are home bound and not healthy. John is still 18 in his mind and he’s doing what he wants to. I’d rather go out that way then spending my life in a nursing home! Send it John Force!
Met him in 70s, we met when both were racing at same track. Think was in Kansas but time is foggy, he slept under truck, now is world famous, he demonstrates true passion for this sport and has helped a lot of folks get started along the way. His age only shows the passion he has for life. Life should be lived, not watched! I'm 73 and race motorcycles whenever possible
He was moved to Nero intensive care today to focus on his head injury. Doctors are saying it is going to be a long road for recovery. Us normal folks wish John Well and pray for him and family
100% agree Rick. Wonder what those ignorant people that make those statements would do at 75 if they make it that far? Those are the ones that are simple Karens that want nothing from life and cast stones because they are behind a keyboard. John is living his life to the fullest and most should appreciate and strive to even come close to being as active as he is at his age. I envy the man. Why wouldn't anyone living not want to die doing what they love instead of dying doing nothing? In the words of Red (Morgan Freeman) "Get busy living or get busy dying" John is a fighter and we can only pray the man will strap in again. Well said Rick!
Love or hate John Force, or any other professional racer, nobody ''deserves'' to be singled out for any reason because they enjoy what they do, they all accept the risk. Everyone makes their own choice, for their own reasons, but that doesn't mean injuries are deserved. Have some compassion for human life, people. Thank you Rick!
John Force is going to do what John Force wants to do. He said it himself the only thing he knows is drag racing. The man has built a hell of a career a hell of a legacy and a hell of a legend for himself. God bless him for it. If he were to retire tomorrow, that will be a career you can hang your hat on and challenge anybody to surpass it
The engine in a funny car or top fuel car doesn't care if the driver is 25 or 75 when it blows up! It happens a lot and there's not much that can be done about it. Furthermore, the broadcasters commended John for the control he had of the car during the crash. All those drivers are talented, but my money says the talent and experience of John Force likely saved his life. Obviously these haters have no idea who John Force is and what he means to the fans of NHRA. I, for one, am praying for John's recovery and his family during this trying time!
Amen,Rick! 👏 You are right on! John Force is a Force to be reckoned with & our prayers are with him & Family!! We have to remember that John was doing what he loves!! The accident was truly horrifying! Thank you for your perspective! Good to see you,too!!
Old round track racer here, watched and raced against you Mr. Mast. Have much respect for you. Please don’t let these idiots on you tube get to you, or under your skin. They ain’t got a clue, not a clue. I appreciate your opinion and your years of skill along with John Force. Just let them go stick their heads back up their butts. God Bless You And God Bless John
👏👏👏👏 Tell us how you really feel Rick...😂 No sugar, just straight from the gut man, & I agree completely! John Force is a racer's racer--and he was doing what he Loves to do, push the boundaries and challenges of speed. He knew the risks that come with that and accepted them. But what he deserves? You called it on the money Mr. Mast--what John Force deserves is our prayers and well wishes. And that's a damned sight better than the thoughtless and heartless comments of a few assholes!
Thank You Mr Rick Mast for saying what most of us feel. We love John and as long as he's doing what makes him happy then nothing and nobody matters. We are praying for a complete and speedy recovery Mr. Force.
Social media has brought the worst out in some people , they live miserable lives that haven’t accomplished anything that anyone will remember . They hate their job , wife , kids , the only place they can take it out on anyone is the Internet , if they talk the way some of them talk in Person their teeth would likely be rearranged
I am praying for Johns recovery. But I believe this is the time to call it a career your career is double in length than what almost all Nascar drivers are. John you have accomplished everything there is in drag racing. Go enjoy life behind scenes of watching your car go down the track go enjoy your grand kids . You have shown you are a winner in your 70s. Nobody is going to put you down John for calling it a career. It is time for you to relax and enjoy life.
at 74 I can not do what I loved had to park it. John Force does't have to prove anything to anybody I think he is doing what he loves & wants to none of my business . mind your own.
@oldredneck6056 even if he stops racing he'd probably be at the track as a car owner in the garage and giving hilarious sound bites, he's a character no doubt!
I'm impressed that John Force is still racing at 75. Most people his age have retired. It just shows that he loves racing and continues to do it at his age. He is not sitting somewhere and letting his life go down hill. He is still living his life his way and to the fullest.
Well said Rick Mast, John Force is my hero. He has worked so hard and starting from nothing and built the huge Force organization. He is the strongest man in this sport. John can do that job better then anyone at any age. The Force family is the hardest worker group of people. Prayers for a speedy recovery and prayers for you and your racing family. 🙏🏻
John Force is the face of drag racing, period! John to NHRA is Richard/Dale to NASCAR. Period! Thank you for the video Mr. Mast. Love seeing your content, and you back in the public eye in general. Miss you on the track, but great to see you back
John Force is a true American. Living his dream and giving us all the excitement at 300 miles per hour. I love John Force. He is my hero in drag racing. Get well John we are praying for your return. God Bless.
Thank you for sticking up for the legend. I myself am 74y.o. and have watched and followed him his whole career. I live in Gainesville, FL., home of the GATORNATIONALS and was there to witness his first run. He is the G.O.A.T. and in my prayers, bless you !
John force living his passion is inspiring. There are a lot of mentally disturbed people on the internet. You wouldn't talk to them on the street why bother on the internet.
Beautifully stated Mr Mast!!!! Loved that true fact statement!!!! I’m 74 &used to drag race B & C stocks &wish I could still do it. John Force is a legend & my hero. To be winning at his age is fantastic! He is a bonafid racer & will allways be one. Praying for you John!!!
Thank you, Rick Mast. YOU COULDN'T HAVE SAID IT ANY BETTER THAN THAT. PERIOD John Force is a LEGEND. He has so much energy, drive, and passion for drag racing. And he takes time to sign autographs for his fans. And he is a family man and down to earth MAN. Wish you the best, and my prayers go out to you, John Force, and your family. I do not understand these negative comments. RESPECT PEOPLE.
Nobody is more qualified to drive that car than John Force. 16 NHRA titles and how many wins now, 155? He won the race where the engine blew up. Wasn’t even John’s fault. Anyone that wishes ill will on John Force or thinks he is too old doesn’t know a thing. John Force is sharp and strong, far sharper than almost any 25 year old man. Way sharper than me at 25, 30,40 and it’s the same with most guys I know. The guy has balls of steel too. So people can talk all the shit they want but those same people aren’t living Legends. I’m willing to bet that John Force will be back in that car winning races at 300+ mph soon. Don’t bet against that man.
Thank you Rick . I've been looking every day for an update on John Force. The press release you had on your video was the first I'd heard since the videos of the explosion. I've sorted through a lot of BS to find your nice commentary. Best wishes, Joe F.
I agree 100%! I'm just hoping to drive at 75 years old. I've watched John since I was a kid. Prayed to God I could just have is attitude in life more or less been as energetic as him. He's always been a inspiration in my life. Although he drove a Ford sponsor for years, I still looked forward to seeing him in an Interview. You never knew if he was going to be funny or cry. Love him so much. Thank you John for all the years and coming years of inspiration.
RICK MAST !!! Havent heard that name in 25 yrs!! BIG JOHN WAS THE POINTS LEADER!! I dont know how he does it but I hope he goes till hes 80. He will be back in a few weeks. GO FORCE!!!
I'm right there with ya! John started reaching 2 years before I was even born and by the time I could even say drag racing I was already a fan of John Force. He's always been number 1 on my eyes. I didn't know until this accident he was still racing and it blew my mind. He's always been amazing on the track and to see he's still out there killing it like he always has days shot about him. Honestly I'm even more proud of what he does now than before. It's not easy living that life yet here he is rocking it. I'm sure a little for him, even more for the crew and family but also for all of us fans. I have the utmost respect for him and so idolize him today. Here's to a speedy recovery John.
