Monday, August 12, 2013

Austin Dillon to replace Stewart at Michigan

Austin Dillon will replace the injured Tony Stewart in the Stewart-Haas Racing No. 14 Chevy this weekend at Michigan International Speedway.

Stewart, who broke his leg in a sprint car race last week in Iowa, also missed Sunday's race at Watkins Glen International, where he was replaced by Max Papis. Stewart was released from the hospital Sunday.

Dillon, 18, the 2011 NASCAR truck series champion, is leading this season's Nationwide points standings. He has two Nationwide victories this season.

SHR hasn't announced who will replace Stewart, who could miss the rest of the season, at Bristol, Tenn., on Aug. 24.

“I’ve watched Austin for many years and at each stage of his racing career he’s been successful,” Stewart said in a statement. “He’s proven to be a very fast learner, and he’s able to adapt quickly. Being the youngest champion in the history of the Truck Series is proof of that. His background in dirt racing is an asset, and off the track we share many of the same interests, specifically, hunting and fishing. I know he’ll perform well at Michigan and I’m just as confident in his ability to properly represent Mobil 1 and Bass Pro Shops throughout the race weekend.” -- David Scott