The uncertainty surrounding Robert Hight’s return to the racing circuit has only increased after John Force Racing released an update on his health.
Hight is the team president and a three-time NHRA Funny Car champion. Since January, Hight has been on medical leave, putting his health before his work commitments.
Recent announcements and his lack of participation in NHRA events over the previous year raise concerns regarding the future of his career and the course of John Force Racing. Since taking over as president of John Force Racing in January 2011, Hight has continued to play a significant role in the company.
In an interview with the media in Bristol, Tennessee, on June 7, team owner John Force gave an update on Hight’s condition. He explained that although Hight is not in the hospital, he would rather avoid the racetracks and questions from the media.
Drag Illustrated quotes Force as saying: “No, Robert’s good. The procedure that he is currently going through is ongoing. The hospital is not where he is. He is in his house.
He simply has no desire to attend the races. He does not want to respond to every query. The fact that Hight will not be competing in a Funny Car in 2025 was revealed at the PRI Show in Indianapolis, which further increased the doubt. This choice highlights how difficult it is for John Force Racing to adjust to changes in their team.
Robert Hight’s impressive career boasts 65 victories, 102 final appearances, and 84 number one qualifications, making him a top performer in NHRA history.
Hight’s legacy includes NHRA championships in 2009, 2017, and 2019. He has accumulated 626 round-wins, earning him the third-highest rank in Funny Car history.
Despite his impressive achievements, Hight remains steadfast in his decision to focus on his health. As he said in a statement in January: “I have to put my health first.
Once this is resolved, I’ll be back.” In the interim, Austin Prock, has transitioned to Hight’s racing role. Prock’s entry into the Funny Car category is backed by a new three-year sponsorship deal with Cornwell Tools. Interestingly, Hight personally recommended Prock as his replacement.
