Almirola moves closer to return

Aric Almirola's recovery is going well, and he could return to the No. 43 Ford sooner than initially expected.

After suffering a compression fracture of his T5 vertebra in a crash at Kansas Speedway on May 13, Almirola was estimated to miss eight to 12 weeks of Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series competition. That timeline would have taken him to Watkins Glen (August 6) at the latest.

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However, after a recent visit with his doctor, Richard Petty Motorsports tells RACER that Almirola's doctors are "optimistic and happy with his recovery so far." While there remains no definitive date for his return, the doctors feel Almirola is moving closer to returning at the eight-week mark.

"Earliest he could be back is Kentucky (July 8), but that is a slight chance," a team representative said. New Hampshire on July 16 or Indianapolis on July 23 is what all involved believe to be the most realistic.

The injury occurred when Almirola first slammed into the side of Joey Logano's car, which had wrecked with Danica Patrick in Turn 1, before going airborne and setting back down. Upon impact, Almirola immediately knew something was wrong with his back, which led to safety and medical crews cutting him out of his car. Fortunately, Almirola did not require surgery nor the use of a back brace.

Regan Smith drove in place of Almirola for three races, starting with the two weeks of activity at Charlotte for the Monster Energy Open and the Coca-Cola 600. He also ran the No. 43 car at Dover.

Last Sunday, Darrell Wallace Jr. made his Cup Series debut driving the car at Pocono, finishing 26th. Wallace will remain the interim driver until Almirola returns.