AVONDALE, ARIZONA - MARCH 06: Ryan Newman looks on during practice for the NASCAR Cup Series FanShield 500 at Phoenix Raceway on March 06, 2020 in Avondale, Arizona. (Photo by Chris Graythen/Getty Images)
Ryan Newman says, “It’s great to be alive” after NASCAR crash
Shane Walters
NASCAR driver Ryan Newman visits the race track for the first time since his Daytona 500 crash
Back in February, Ryan Newman crossed the Daytona 500 finish line upside down.
The driver was racing for the lead with a few hundred feet to go in the 500-mile race. After throwing a block on Ryan Blaney, he was turned into the outside wall at 200mph.
Newman bounced off the wall, rolled and was struck in the driver’s door by Corey LaJoie.
Newman was transported from the track to a local hospital. A few days later, he was released.
However, Newman continues to recover from a head injury. He has not been back in the car as Ross Chastain fills his seat in the No. 6.
This week, at Phoenix Raceway, Newman made his first return to the track since the crash at Daytona International Speedway.
The 42-year-old NASCAR driver was rushed with questions as much of the injury and recovery remain a mystery. He answered a few questions during a walk through the garage area…
“I feel fine. Do I look ok?” Newman stated from Phoenix Raceway.
“I have no idea about anything,” Newman said of a return to the car. “I’m here to spectate and have some fun.”
“I’m really just here to support the No. 6 team. Stay integrated with what I can do, with the team. Have some fun, that’s really what it’s all about.”
“I wanna see Ross do well. But, I’d rather be in Ross’ seat. Just want to make sure that we do everything we possibly can do.”
“I get a chance now to watch not only the No. 6 but the No. 17. Watch how they work and the teamwork that goes into that.”
“That’s equally important to me. To watch them and see them preform while I’m not in the racecar. I feel like I should be able to take advantage of this crazy opportunity.”
“It’s great to be alive. After looking at my car, it’s a miracle. Just, lucky,” Newman concluded.