Update (July 12, 4:50 p.m.): NASCAR announced July 12 that it has approved a playoff waiver for Michael Annett, meaning he will be able to compete in the NASCAR Xfinity Series playoffs, should be qualify.
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Josh Berry will substitute for JR Motorsports driver Michael Annett in the NASCAR Xfinity Series on July 17 at New Hampshire Motor Speedway, the team announced on July 12.
It will be the second Xfinity race Annett has missed due to a leg injury, leading to Austin Dillon filling in for him last weekend at Atlanta Motor Speedway. A MRI revealed that Annett suffered a stress fracture in his right femur, which will require surgery for the 35-year-old.
Berry ran 12 races for JRM in the No. 8 Chevrolet, earning his first career win at Martinsville Speedway in April. The Hendersonville, Tenn., native has also competed in three events for Jordan Anderson Racing in the No. 31 Chevrolet, including at Atlanta. In 15 starts, Berry has recorded four top fives and eight top 10s in addition to his win.
JRM has requested a medical waiver for Annett in order for him to be eligible for playoff contention. Annett currently sits in 10th in points and 11th in the playoff standings.
With a two-week break coming for the Tokyo Olympics following the New Hampshire race, Annett’s doctors estimate the three-week recovery will enough time for him to return to the car on Aug. 7 at Watkins Glen International.
Luken Glover joined the Frontstretch team in 2020 as a contributor, furthering a love for racing that traces back to his earliest memories. Glover inherited his passion for racing from his grandfather, who used to help former NASCAR team owner Junie Donlavey in his Richmond, Va. garage. A 2023 graduate from the University of the Cumberlands, Glover is the author of "The Underdog House," contributes to commentary pieces, and does occasional at-track reporting. Additionally, Glover enjoys working in ministry, coaching basketball, playing sports, and karting.