John Force, the drag racing champion who suffered a traumatic brain injury in a fiery NHRA crash less than two weeks ago in Virginia, was moved out of intensive care.

According to an update from his team, Force, 75, was moved out of neuro-intensive care and into acute neuro care at the hospital where he was transported by air ambulance on June 23.

John Force Racing said the latest upgrade for the 16-time NHRA champion was welcomed by Force family members, though "the journey ahead will be a long and difficult one," the statement read.

"Although Force is dealing with cognitive and behavioral symptoms from his TBI, the fact that the Hall of Fame driver can converse with medical staff, family members, and John Force Racing president Robert Hight, who flew in this week, is an encouraging sign," John Force Racing noted. "However, there have also been periods of confusion, which doctors say require time and patience to treat."

The statement noted Force regained his equilibrium to the point that he has been able to walk with the assistance of medical staff members. Force's family said the next step will be to move the racing legend to a long-term facility that specializes in traumatic brain injuries and associated symptoms.

This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: John Force moved out of intensive care after June NHRA crash