Dale Earnhardt Jr. to miss remainder of NASCAR season

Dale Earnhardt Jr., who has been out of his race car since July with a concussion, will miss the remainder of the NASCAR season, Hendrick Motorsports announced Friday morning.

Earnhardt has already missed six races and will now skip the remaining 12 events as he recovers. Jeff Gordon and Alex Bowman, who have both substituted for Earnhardt in the No. 88 car during his absence, will continue to split the schedule.

Gordon is set to drive the car this weekend at Darlington Raceway.

Earnhardt, who will be 42 on Oct. 10, has a history of concussions, the latest of which has caused him to have vision problems and balance issues.

“I wish I could return to the No. 88 team this season,” Earnhardt said in a statement. “To say I’m disappointed doesn’t begin to describe how I feel, but I know this is the right thing for my long-term health and career. I’m 100% focused on my recovery, and I will continue to follow everything the doctors tell me. They’re seeing good progress in my test results, and I’m feeling that progress physically. I plan to be healthy and ready to compete at Daytona in February. I’m working toward that.

“The support from both inside and outside the race team has been overwhelming. Everyone has been so encouraging and positive, from my teammates and sponsors to my family, friends and fans. It’s motivating and humbling at the same time.”

source : http://www.usatoday.com/