Kurt Busch posts medical update; Not cleared to race Richmond

“This was by far the hardest week emotionally”

Back in July, Kurt Busch crashed during practice at Pocono Raceway. He backed it into the fence at a high rate of speed and didn’t return to the car for the rest of the weekend.

Ty Gibbs stepped in to drive the No 45 in the race at Pocono Raceway. He’s also driven the car at the Indianapolis Road Course in addition to last week at Pocono Raceway.

Now, Kurt Busch has announced that he’ll be sitting out for the fourth weekend in a row. Gibbs will drive the car this weekend at Richmond Raceway.

23XI Racing is bringing a new look to the track this weekend. The No. 45 will see primary sponsorship from the Jordan brand.

The black and white scheme matches the Air Jordan 11 “Concord” shoes. The dark blue number matches the sole color.

Kurt Busch drove to victory lane earlier this year with Jordan Brand on the hood at Kansas Speedway.

Watch the Kurt Busch crash video

Kurt Busch posts an update

“Brian injury recovery doesn’t always take a linear path,” Kurt Busch opened in a statement.

“I’ve been feeling well in my recovery, but this week I pushed to get my heart rate and body in a race simulation type environment, and it’s clear I’m not ready to be back in the race car.”

“This was by far the hardest week emotionally because I do feel the progression of recovery, but racing requires an extreme physical and mental effort, and my body is not 100% able to sustain the intense race conditions.”

“I am making progress and pushing hard each day. I am encouraged by my team of doctors, and we will continue to do everything it takes to get me to 100% to return to competition.”

Busch concluded, “Thanks to everyone for the continued support and best of luck to the 45 team and Ty this weekend in Richmond.”

Kurt Busch is in his 23rd NASCAR Cup Series season. It’s his first season with 23XI Racing.

Dale Earnhardt Jr comments

Dale Earnhardt Jr once said he’s suffered from 20+ concussions and he noted it as a partial reason for his retirement from full-time racing. Dale Jr has forwarded Busch to his own concussion doctor.

Dale Jr commented after Busch’s latest update, “Kurt’s patience and transparency is a massive relief. I’m so thankful he is making sure he will be 100% for a return.”

Dale Earnhardt Jr suffered 20+ concussions; He hid most of them from NASCAR

Links

Kurt Busch | Dale Earnhardt Jr | Richmond Raceway | NASCAR

Categories

Tags