10 MINUTE AGO!!🔴 NASCAR Just ANNOUNCED What Everyone Feared!👇

Charlotte, NC – January 23, 2026 – In a devastating announcement that has sent the entire NASCAR community into shock and mourning, series officials confirmed this morning that veteran driver Austin Dillon has suffered a severe injury following a violent multi-car crash during a private test session at Charlotte Motor Speedway yesterday. The crash, captured in dramatic high-speed photos now circulating online, shows Dillon’s No. 3 Richard Childress Racing Chevrolet launching airborne, barrel-rolling multiple times before slamming into the outside wall in a shower of debris and sparks.

NASCAR released an official statement at 10:47 a.m. ET: “Austin Dillon was involved in a serious incident during testing at Charlotte Motor Speedway. He has been transported to a local trauma center and is currently in surgery for multiple injuries, including fractures and internal trauma. His condition is listed as critical but stable. Our thoughts and prayers are with Austin, his family, Richard Childress Racing, and the entire NASCAR family during this difficult time.”

The images are horrifying: Dillon’s blue-and-white RCR Chevy flipping end-over-end at high speed, the car disintegrating on impact, debris flying everywhere, and the iconic No. 3 obliterated against the SAFER barrier. Another photo shows emergency crews rushing to the wreckage as thick black smoke rises from the mangled machine. A third image captures the moment Dillon was extracted from the cockpit on a stretcher, helmet still on, surrounded by frantic safety workers.

Sources close to the team say the crash occurred during a high-downforce aero test when Dillon’s car suddenly snapped loose entering Turn 3 – possibly due to a mechanical failure or tire issue. The No. 3 Chevy made heavy contact with the wall, then caught air and barrel-rolled violently before landing upside down. Dillon was conscious when extracted but was immediately airlifted to Atrium Health Carolinas Medical Center.

The news has sent shockwaves through the sport. Drivers, teams, and fans have flooded social media with prayers and messages of support. Kyle Busch posted: “Praying for you, brother. Hang in there – you’re tough as nails.” Denny Hamlin wrote: “Austin – we’re all with you. Get better fast.” Even rivals like Chase Elliott and Joey Logano shared heartfelt notes. Richard Childress Racing issued a statement: “Austin is the strongest person we know. He’s in the best hands. Our entire RCR family is united in support.”

The incident comes at a critical time. Dillon, grandson of team owner Richard Childress, has been a cornerstone of RCR since 2011, with 13 Cup wins including the 2018 Daytona 500 and the 2020 Coke 600. He was expected to be a playoff contender in 2026. The crash raises immediate questions about testing safety protocols, car design, and the physical toll of the sport – especially with the radical 2026 rules package looming.

NASCAR President Steve Phelps addressed the media briefly: “Safety is our top priority. We are cooperating fully with the investigation and will support Austin and RCR in every way possible.” The series has postponed all media obligations for RCR drivers until further notice.

Fans are devastated. The photos of the mangled No. 3 car have been shared millions of times, with hashtags #PrayForAustin and #GetWellAustin trending worldwide. Messages pour in from across the sport: “Austin is one of the good ones – come back stronger, man.” “This is terrifying. NASCAR, fix the cars before someone else gets hurt.”

The NASCAR community is holding its breath. Austin Dillon is fighting for his life. The sport is holding its breath with him.

Prayers up, everyone. Come on, Austin.

NASCAR President Steve Phelps addressed the media briefly: “Safety is our top priority. We are cooperating fully with the investigation and will support Austin and RCR in every way possible.” The series has postponed all media obligations for RCR drivers until further notice.

Fans are devastated. The photos of the mangled No. 3 car have been shared millions of times, with hashtags #PrayForAustin and #GetWellAustin trending worldwide. Messages pour in from across the sport: “Austin is one of the good ones – come back stronger, man.” “This is terrifying. NASCAR, fix the cars before someone else gets hurt.”

The NASCAR community is holding its breath. Austin Dillon is fighting for his life. The sport is holding its breath with him.

Prayers up, everyone. Come on, Austin.

NASCAR President Steve Phelps addressed the media briefly: “Safety is our top priority. We are cooperating fully with the investigation and will support Austin and RCR in every way possible.” The series has postponed all media obligations for RCR drivers until further notice.

Fans are devastated. The photos of the mangled No. 3 car have been shared millions of times, with hashtags #PrayForAustin and #GetWellAustin trending worldwide. Messages pour in from across the sport: “Austin is one of the good ones – come back stronger, man.” “This is terrifying. NASCAR, fix the cars before someone else gets hurt.”

The NASCAR community is holding its breath. Austin Dillon is fighting for his life. The sport is holding its breath with him.

Prayers up, everyone. Come on, Austin.