Corey Heim replaces Erik Jones after accident at Talladega

Corey Heim will take the wheel of the No. 43 Toyota in the upcoming NASCAR Cup Series race at Dover Motor Speedway. The announcement was made by Legacy Motor Club following the withdrawal of Erik Jones, who suffered an accident last Sunday at Talladega SuperSpeedway.

During the GEICO 500 race, Jones collided head-on with the external wall at Turn 3. Although initially evaluated and released from the circuit's medical center, his condition required further detailed examination. He was eventually transferred to UAB University Hospital in Birmingham, Alabama, for additional assessments. Jones has since returned to North Carolina, where he continues under the care of specialists who have confirmed a compression fracture in a lumbar vertebra. Although no specific timetable has been provided for his return to racing, Jones will be present in Dover to support his team from off the track.

Jimmie Johnson, co-owner of the team, emphasized that Jones' health is the top priority and expressed support for the driver and his wife Holly. Meanwhile, Heim, who is the main driver of the No. 11 Toyota in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series for Tricon Garage, will make his Cup Series debut in this Sunday's race. Heim, 21, is currently second in the Truck Series standings and will participate in Saturday's Xfinity race for Sam Hunt Racing.

Legacy Motor Club plans to request a medical waiver to keep Jones eligible for the 2024 NASCAR Cup Series Playoffs.