Kurt Busch has not been cleared to compete in Sunday’s M&M’s Fan Appreciation 400 at Pocono Raceway following an accident in Saturday’s single-car qualifying session, according to a statement released by NASCAR on Sunday Morning.
“This morning, Kurt Busch met with doctors in the infield care center for further evaluation following his accident during yesterday’s qualifying session. Following the evaluation, Kurt Busch has not been cleared to race in today’s NASCAR Cup Series event at Pocono Raceway.” – NASCAR
Ty Gibbs – a full-time driver in the NASCAR Xfinity Series for Joe Gibbs Racing — will pilot the No. 45 Toyota Camry TRD in place of Busch in Sunday’s 400-mile event. The race will serve as Gibbs’ NASCAR Cup Series debut.
The 20-year-old finished in the runner-up spot in Saturday’s NASCAR Xfinity Series event, coming up just short behind Noah Gragson – who will also compete in Sunday’s NASCAR Cup Series event for Kaulig Racing.
“NASCAR has done a great job of putting the drivers’ health before competition and I respect the decision they have made,” Kurt Busch said in a statement. “I”m still having concussion-like symptoms from yesterday’s impact in qualifying. The tests demonstrate I am still recovering. I will continue to follow the medical team’s recommendations, and appreciate everyone’s support. Thanks to 23XI Racing and their efforts, let’s get back on track in Indy.”
In the second round of Saturday’s qualifying session, Kurt Busch broke loose in turn three, spinning his No. 45 McDonald’s Toyota Camry TRD around and pounding the outside wall with significant force.
Video: Kurt Busch Backs HARD Into Outside Wall in Final Round Qualifying at Pocono
This is a developing story, if more information is received it will be added to this story.