February 18, 2020 | By Lee Spencer

Ryan Newman Update

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla.—Ryan Newman is awake and speaking with family and doctors

according to a statement released Tuesday afternoon by Roush Fenway Racing.

The 42-year-old racer remains under the care of doctors at Halifax Medical Center in Daytona Beach. 

“Ryan and his family have expressed their appreciation for the concern and heartfelt messages from across the country,” the statement said. “They are grateful for the unwavering support of the NASCAR community and beyond.” 

The statement added that additional information would be forwarded when available. 

Newman was racing for the lead on the last lap of the Daytona 500 when he was tapped from behind by Ryan Blaney and landed on his roof. As the No. 6 Roush Fenway Racing Ford spun down the front stretch, Newman was tagged by Corey LaJoie, who had no where to go throughout the melee.

Newman was immediately transported to the hospital where he remained overnight. The South Bend, Indiana native is in his 19th full season in NASCAR Cup Series and his second behind the wheel of the No. 6 Ford. He’s posted 18 wins, 51 poles, 115 top fives and 262 top 10 finishes in 657 starts.