Newman says he will be ready to race when NASCAR resumes

DAYTONA BEACH, FLORIDA – FEBRUARY 09: Ryan Newman, driver of the #6 Koch Industries Ford, walks on the grid during qualifying for the NASCAR Cup Series 62nd Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 09, 2020 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images)

by: Matt Fortin

Posted: Apr 26, 2020 / 03:19 PM EDT

Updated: Apr 26, 2020 / 03:19 PM EDT

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) – Ryan Newman says he will be ready to race when NASCAR resumes competition.

Newman suffered a head injury in the season-opening race at Daytona International Speedway. The Indiana native spent less than 48 hours in the hospital before walking out holding hands with his two daughters.

Ross Chastain drove the No. 6 Ford in place of Newman for three races before the NASCAR season was suspended March 13 because of the coronavirus pandemic.

Newman said Sunday on Fox Sports he will be ready to race when NASCAR calls drivers back to the track. NASCAR says Newman still must be medically cleared.