Austin Dillon becomes the fourth NASCAR driver to test positive for virus
Since NASCAR returned in mid-May, four drivers have now tested positive for COVID-19. As of Saturday morning, Austin Dillon has become the fourth.
The NASCAR Cup Series driver is scheduled to run on Sunday in Daytona Beach, Florida. It’s the debut of the Daytona Road Course.
Richard Childress Racing has already announced a replacement driver. Kaz Grala will pilot the No. 3 machine on Sunday.
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Wife, Whitney Dillon as well as Ace Dillon, son remain healthy. Grala released a social media video stating that Austin Dillon’s symptoms are mild.
Dillon is the fourth NASCAR driver to test positive and second NASCAR Cup Series driver to miss a race due to the virus. Earlier, Jimmie Johnson tested positive and missed one race at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway.
Per the NASCAR rule book, Dillon will have to have two negative tests, each at least 24 hours apart in order to return to action.
Grala has run many races for RCR. This Sunday, he’ll be making his NASCAR Cup Series debut.
Related: Austin Dillon and Richard Childress comment on haters of the ‘Silver Spoon Kid’
Kaz Grala on Austin Dillon
“I just received word that unfortunately, Austin Dillon has tested positive for COVID-19,” Grala opened in the brief social media video.
“Luckily, his symptoms are mild. And Whitney and Ace are symptom free. I believe that will stay exactly that way.”
“I’ll be the replacement driver for Austin in tomorrow’s Cup Series race. I’ll be keeping the seat warm for him in the No. 3. It’s a big opportunity for me. I’m looking forward to it and I hope to make everybody at Richard Childress Racing proud.”
Related: Dale Earnhardt race car sold at auction by Richard Childress Racing
Links
Kaz Grala | Austin Dillon | Richard Childress Racing | Daytona International Speedway | NASCAR
