John Force showing daily signs of improvement, but remains in ICU

RICHMOND, Va. (AP) — NHRA drag racing great John Force is showing “daily signs of improvement” in a neurological intensive care unit a week after a fiery, 300 mph crash at the Virginia Nationals, according to his team.

John Force Racing said Sunday that the 75-year-old Force has been able to respond to commands including giving a thumbs-up and to recognize family members, calling them by name and saying, “I love you.” Initially, he couldn’t follow commands to open his eyes, squeeze the hands of care providers or move his extremities.