NASCAR Driver Erik Jones Fractures Back in Talladega Crash, Will Miss Dover Race

NASCAR Cup Series driver Erik Jones suffered a compression fracture in a lower vertebra during a forceful collision at Talladega Superspeedway on April 23, 2023. As a result of the injury, Jones will miss this Sunday's race at Dover Motor Speedway.

The incident occurred in the closing laps of the GEICO 500 at Talladega when Jones was involved in a collision with Bubba Wallace, leading to a spin and a hard impact with the SAFER barrier. Jones' No. 43 Toyota went head-on into the wall in the Stage 3 crash.

After being evaluated and released from the infield care center, Jones was transported to UAB University Hospital in Birmingham, Alabama for further testing. It was determined that the 27-year-old driver had suffered a fracture in a lower vertebra.

Legacy Motor Club, the team Jones competes for, announced that their reserve driver Corey Heim will drive the No. 43 car at Dover in Jones' absence. Heim, a top prospect in the Toyota development program, is currently second in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series standings and will be making his Cup Series debut.

Why this matters: Jones' injury highlights the inherent risks in NASCAR racing, even with modern safety advancements. His absence also opens the door for a promising talent like Heim to showcase his skills at the sport's top level.

There is currently no timeline for Jones' return as he takes a week-by-week approach to his recovery. Legacy Motor Club has stated that Jones' long-term health is their top priority. The team will request a medical waiver from NASCAR to keep Jones eligible for the playoffs upon his return.

Despite being sidelined, Jones plans to be in attendance at Dover to support his team and help call the race with his crew. Jimmie Johnson, co-owner of Legacy Motor Club, expressed his concern for Jones, saying, "Erik's long-term health is our top priority. We will give him the time he needs to recover properly." After 10 races, Jones is 20th in the NASCAR Cup Series points standings, with his best finish of the season being an eighth place at Daytona.

Key Takeaways

• Erik Jones suffered a compression fracture in a lower vertebra after a crash at Talladega.
• Jones will miss the upcoming race at Dover, with Corey Heim replacing him in the #43 car.
• Jones' injury highlights the risks in NASCAR, but opens the door for promising talent like Heim.
• There is no timeline for Jones' return, as his long-term health is the team's top priority.
• After 10 races, Jones is 20th in the NASCAR Cup Series points standings.