Las Vegas — We heard words from NASCAR’s Ryan Newman for the first time Sunday after he survived a violent crash nearly a week ago in the Daytona 500.
Newman said he suffered a head injury but escaped with no broken bones. He also said he plans to return to racing and said his goal is to win the 2020 Cup Series.
On Sunday, Steve Newmark, the president of Newman’s racing team, Roush Fenway, held a press conference and read a statement from Newman.
The statement said Newman was fortunate to avoid any internal organ damage or broken bones. He did sustain a head injury that he said he’s being treated for.
After seeing the crash, many were surprised Newman didn’t break any bones and was able to walk out of the hospital this past Wednesday.
Newmark said there’s no timeline on when Newman will race again at this point, but said he’s been assured that the No. 6 car will be waiting for him when he returns. According to Newmark, there are three groups that will dictate Newman’s return to the racetrack.
“And those three groups are Ryan and his family, his doctors, and NASCAR and their medical team. And once those sign off, we’ll see him back in a race car,” said Newmark.
Newman’s teammates also honored him on the track Sunday. The No. 6 Rocketman decal was on their race cars at the Pennzoil 400 in Las Vegas.
The full statement from Newman:
“I’m sorry that I can’t be at the track in person but I asked Steve to take a moment to express my sincere appreciation and gratitude for all of the support that was shown last week to both me and my family.
"The outpouring of emotion from not only the NASCAR community, but across the country, has been truly humbling. I want to personally thank everyone including the Man upstairs for their support, encouragement and the numerous offers of assistance.
“We always say that the NASCAR community is one big family and never has that been more evident to me than after seeing this family rally together and provide the comfort and support that has been shown to my family and me over the past few days. The calls and visits from the NASCAR executives and my friends and competitors have truly been uplifting.
“I want to thank everyone involved in my care especially the staff at Halifax Medical Center where I am convinced I received the best care available. I’m confident the efforts of each of these trained professionals played a major role in where I’m sitting today. And, to the entire NASCAR organization, led by Jim France, thanks for being by my side the entire time. You truly stepped up to support me unconditionally when it mattered most.
“Most importantly, I have to thank the guys back at the Roush Fenway Racing shop that built me a car not only fast enough to lead the final seconds of the Daytona 500, but strong enough to do its job under great distress, allowing me to survive such an accident. I am truly indebted to each of you and it is unlikely I will ever be able to properly express to you how much the diligent effort with which you conduct your craftsmanship has affected me and my family. I hope you took pride in the photograph of me walking out of the hospital hand in hand with my daughters on Wednesday. Thank you. I can’t wait to get back in your race car.
“I was fortunate to avoid any internal organ damage or broken bones. I did sustain a head injury for which I am currently being treated. The doctors have been pleased with my progression over the last few days.
“Again, I want to thank each of you. From my partners, teammates, and competitors and each and every fan across the country. Thank you everyone for the unparalleled concern and unwavering support. And to the media, who has acted with such respect and class during this time.
“I’ve spoken with Jack Roush and he has assured me that the #6 car will be waiting and ready for my return. I’m looking forward to getting behind the wheel and battling for another race in the Roush Fenway Ford."
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