Earnhardt, Jr. to Sit Remainder of 2016 Season

Hendrick Motorsports announced early Friday morning Dale Earnhardt, Jr. would continue to sit out for the remainder of the 2016 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series season after missing the last six races due to concussion-like symptoms.

“I wish I could return to the No. 88 team this season,” Earnhardt said. “To say I’m disappointed doesn’t begin to describe how I feel, but I know this is the right thing for my long-term health and career. I’m 100 percent focused on my recovery, and I will continue to follow everything the doctors tell me. They’re seeing good progress in my test results, and I’m feeling that progress physically. I plan to be healthy and ready to compete at Daytona in February. I’m working toward that.”

Jeff Gordon and Alex Bowman have split driving duties in the No. 88 since Earnhardt’s last outing at Kentucky Speedway, and the two will continue to do that as the season winds down.

“Jeff and Alex will give us a great opportunity over the rest of the season,” Earnhardt said. “Jeff is one of the best of all time and knows our system. He brings things to the table that no one else can. Alex is a young driver with a lot of talent, and he will give us a fresh perspective. We know they’re not only capable of running up front and giving us a chance to win, but they’ll help us get better.”

Gordon will race four of the last 12 races including this weekend at Darlington Raceway, while Bowman will undertake the remaining eight races beginning at Chicagoland Speedway on September 18.