May 13, 2025 — Glendora, CA
In a long-anticipated but still controversial move, John Force, the 16-time NHRA and AHRA Funny Car champion and 22-time championship-winning team owner, has been formally declared the G.O.A.T. (Greatest of All Time) by a panel of motorsports historians, journalists, and NHRA leadership. The announcement came during a special ceremony at NHRA headquarters, honoring Force’s unparalleled career that has spanned over four decades.
However, while fans celebrated, the declaration stirred significant annoyance and debate within the racing community—especially among fellow drivers and a younger generation of fans who argue that the title, while deserved by Force, should not come at the exclusion of other legends.
A Record-Breaking Legacy
John Force’s resume is staggering:
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16 NHRA Funny Car championships as a driver
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22 titles as a team owner across different categories
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Over 150 career wins
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Revered for revolutionizing Funny Car racing with innovations in safety, sponsorship, and driver development
Force also helped launch the careers of many current NHRA stars, including daughters Brittany and Courtney Force, and has become a household name in motorsports.
NHRA President Glen Cromwell remarked during the ceremony: “John Force didn’t just race—he changed the game. From the garage to the grandstands, his influence is unmatched. Today, we recognize him not just as a champion, but as the greatest to ever strap in.”
Not Everyone Applauding
Despite the glowing accolades, the announcement wasn’t met with universal acclaim.
A number of current and former drivers have reportedly expressed frustration with the “finality” of declaring one individual as the definitive G.O.A.T. Some pointed to Don Prudhomme, Kenny Bernstein, Shirley Muldowney, and more recent stars like Steve Torrence and Ron Capps as deserving broader recognition.
“You can’t ignore what Force has done for the sport, but crowning one person G.O.A.T. in a sport as diverse and historic as drag racing—it’s just not that simple,” said one veteran driver, speaking anonymously.
Fans online echoed similar sentiments, with social media lighting up over the news. While many celebrated Force, others used hashtags like #RespectAllLegends and #TooSoonToCall to voice their frustration.
Force’s Reaction: Humble, Yet Forceful
The 74-year-old Force, known for his animated personality and no-holds-barred interviews, took the stage with humility.
“I’ve won races, crashed cars, and lived to tell the stories. But I didn’t do this alone,” he said, gesturing to his team and family. “Call me whatever you want—G.O.A.T., old goat, race rat—I just love this sport, and I’m grateful for the ride.”
Addressing the criticism directly, Force added: “There are so many greats in this sport. Prudhomme, Muldowney, Capps, Torrence—hell, some of these kids coming up are gonna break all my records. And I’ll be the first one to shake their hand when they do.”
What This Means for the NHRA
The NHRA is reportedly planning to roll out a “John Force G.O.A.T. Tour” for the 2025 season, including tribute displays at every race venue, a documentary series, and a limited-edition merchandise line.
While the organization emphasizes this as a celebration of Force’s impact, some in the industry fear it could unintentionally overshadow current stars or alienate fans who support other drivers.
Still, it’s hard to deny the impact of a man who built a legacy with sheer talent, relentless passion, and unfiltered honesty.
Conclusion
Whether you’re cheering or questioning the G.O.A.T. title, one thing is undeniable—John Force has shaped modern drag racing in his image. As the debate rages on, the man himself remains focused on what he’s always loved: the smell of nitro, the roar of engines, and the thrill of going full throttle down the strip.
“Call it what you want,” Force said with a grin. “I ain’t done yet.”
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