For the first time since his nasty crash at Michigan International Speedway on June 7, Christopher Bell took questions from the media. Bell, who revealed earlier this week that he broke his wrist during the incident, entered the media room with a cast on his left arm.
Bell had his left hand on the underside of the steering wheel during the time of impact, with the sudden stop causing the break, he stated in the media center. He later noted that a normal recovery for a broken wrist is around six weeks. In addition, there was concern about Bell’s foot, but it ended up just being a bruise.
When asked if there was any concern about the upcoming road circuits on the schedule, Bell said he was taking it one track at a time. “I’m thankful (San Diego) is another seven days away, but I think certainly it is going to be a week-to-week thing.”
There is a glimmer of hope, as Bell did say he spend time in the simulator practicing for San Diego, and it went promisingly.
Bell disclosed that the hit was a 63 G-force impact. While he did get hurt, Bell was appreciative towards the safety of the car. “I’m just so incredibly fortunate, and thankful, and blessed that my head was okay.”
“To get out of there with just a fractured wrist is pretty immaculate. I owe all of the credit to NASCAR and my team for building safe cars.”
The Joe Gibbs Racing driver went on to thank those in the industry for their support, specifically pointing out Chase Elliott. Elliott was involved in the wreck that injured Bell, and made sure to check on him as soon as they both got out of their cars.
“He’s reached out several times throughout the week to make sure I’m okay,” Bell stated.
In recent years, injured drivers have started races to earn points, but then swap with a relief driver after the start of the race. Bell plans on staying in the car for the entirety of the race Sunday (June 14). There is, however, a back-up plan. Brandon Jones, driver for Joe Gibbs Racing in the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series did spend time with the team and tested the simulator in case he is needed to swap.
After one of the nastiest impacts in recent memory, Bell is still ready to compete at Pocono.
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