What happened to Robert Hight and who will replace him?

Robert Hight was born on August 20, 1969, and is the president of John Force Racing in addition to being a well-known NHRA drag racer. Hight, who gained notoriety for steering the Auto Club of Southern California Chevrolet Camaro SS Funny Car during his racing career, has been a prominent participant in the NHRA Camping World Drag Racing Series Funny Car since 2005. 

His incredible journey has seen him win three championships in 2009, 2017, and 2019, leaving a lasting legacy of victories for John Force Racing. Throughout 14 competitive seasons, Hight continuously achieved top-10 finishes in points, displaying both skill and dependability. 

Originally from Alturas, California, he currently resides in Yorba Linda, California, successfully managing his roles as a seasoned drag racer and a leader within John Force Racing.

What happened to Robert Hight? 

Robert Hight leaves Funny Car for medical reasons to be replaced by Austin Prock – Auto Racing Digest. Robert Hight (left) will be sidelined indefinitely in one of two John Force Racing Funny Cars. Austin Prock (right) will replace Hight.

When Hight will be back behind the wheel has yet to be determined.

Putting Health First

Hight has expressed how important it is to put his health first and how excited he is to get back into racing as soon as his medical condition is fixed. 

In his absence for the 2024 season, Austin Prock will step in as the driver. Prock, expressing his excitement about the opportunity, acknowledged that while driving a Funny Car is a dream come true, the circumstances are bittersweet.

As Austin Prock assumes the driving duties, the racing community sends Hight best wishes and hopes for a speedy recovery.

“I have to put my health first,” Hight, who has placed second in the points standings the last two years, stated in an interview. “I will return as soon as this is resolved. Being a competitor, I am eager to resume my passion and am looking forward to racing once more. For Cornwell Tools, AAA, Chevy, and all of the sponsors of John Force Racing, I am confident that Austin will perform admirably in my place.

Due to unforeseen circumstances, Austin Prock was able to fulfill several of his lifelong dreams, including driving a Nitro Funny Car and taking his family on a road trip.

“First off all the best wishes to Robert and his health. It’s been a dream of mine to drive a funny car with my family, but this is not the way I hoped it would happen. It’s bittersweet,” Prock said.