NORTH DINWIDDIE, Va. (AP) — NHRA legend John Force was conscious before being taken to a medical facility following his serious crash Sunday at the Virginia Nationals at Virginia Motorsports Park.

During the first round of Funny Car eliminations, the engine of 75-year-old Force’s car exploded at the finish line, causing the vehicle to cross the center line and crash into both guardrails.

The NHRA said Force was conscious and was evaluated by the NHRA medical team at the race track before being transported to a medical facility.

Three weeks ago, Force drove to his 157th NHRA victory and second of the season in New Hampshire – a record.

In 2007, at the age of 58, Force was seriously injured in a racing accident in Ennis, Texas.

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