Ryan Newman Says He Was Put in Medically Induced Coma After Scary NASCAR Crash

Ryan Newman said he was placed in a medically induced coma after his horrific crash in the final lap of the 2020 Daytona 500. 

During a meeting with reporters Thursday, Newman said doctors also placed a peripherally inserted central catheter in his chest. He is slated to return to his No. 6 Ford this weekend for the first time since the crash.

"I'm so excited and thankful to be healthy to get back into the race car," Newman said in a statement earlier this week. "I am thankful for all the people and support that have prayed for me and given me a multitude of miracles. I cannot think of a better track to start back at than Darlington, my favorite track and one we feel confident in. I'm excited to get back behind the wheel of the Oscar Mayer Ford."

NASCAR has been on hold since mid-March due to the coronavirus pandemic. The break has allowed Newman to recuperate from his injuries having missed three races. 

NASCAR's planned return will see the sport race twice at Darlington over the next week before going to Charlotte for a pair of races. 

Newman, 42, finished in 15th place in the standings last season, his 20th as a Cup Series driver.