Joe Gibbs Racing has confirmed a major change for this weekend’s NASCAR Xfinity Series lineup, removing William Sawalich from the No. 18 Toyota at Martinsville due to concussion-like symptoms after a severe crash at Talladega. Justin Bonsignore will fill in as Sawalich undergoes evaluation and recovery, providing the latest twist in the ongoing Joe Gibbs Racing Xfinity Update.
Sawalich Sidelined After Talladega Collision
William Sawalich, currently in his first full-time season with Joe Gibbs Racing in the NASCAR Xfinity Series, was involved in a multi-car accident last week during Stage 2 at Talladega. The wreck occurred on Lap 45 of the Round of 8 playoff race, starting when Leland Honeyman was turned entering Turn 1, making contact with both Connor Mosack and Connor Zilisch. Mosack’s car then veered up the track, colliding heavily with Sawalich’s vehicle.
Following the accident, Sawalich was first evaluated at the infield care center before being transported to a local Alabama hospital for further testing. He was treated and released by Sunday morning, but continues to experience symptoms consistent with a concussion. According to Jordan Bianchi of The Athletic, Sawalich and the team opted not to race him this weekend, prioritizing his health after consulting with medical personnel.
Justin Bonsignore to Take the Wheel at Martinsville
With Sawalich sidelined, Joe Gibbs Racing announced Justin Bonsignore will race the No. 18 car at Martinsville. This substitution ensures the team remains competitive in one of the final and crucial rounds of the Xfinity Series season. Bonsignore brings experience to the seat as the playoff battle intensifies, and his performance at this stage could shape the rest of the team’s championship campaign.
Sawalich Shares Health Update and Gratitude
Sawalich updated supporters on his condition and thanked the broader NASCAR community for their support during his recovery. He acknowledged everyone who reached out, recognized the efforts of the medical staff, and emphasized the importance of his ongoing recovery:
“I’m disappointed to not be in the car this weekend, but my health is my number one priority,”
William Sawalich wrote on Twitter.
“I’m feeling better every day and working with Dr. Collins at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center and NASCAR to go through their concussion protocol to return to the track as soon as possible.”
— William Sawalich, Driver
“Appreciate all the messages and calls last night. Finally made it back home from Talladega — a little sore but feeling better and thankful for all the support,”
William Sawalich wrote.
“Grateful for my team, the racing community, the NASCAR medical staff, nurses and doctors at UAB Hospital, friends and family.”
— William Sawalich, Driver
Xfinity Series Playoff Drama Intensifies
The accident at Talladega and the resulting lineup change come as the NASCAR Xfinity Series enters a pivotal weekend at Martinsville. This event serves as the cutoff race for the current Round of 8, with four drivers advancing to compete for the championship. The current standings are led by Connor Zilisch, Justin Allgaier, Jesse Love, Carson Kvapil, Sammy Smith, Brandon Jones, Sam Mayer, and Sheldon Creed, but only the top four will continue past this round.
Kvapil currently holds an 11-point cushion above the cut line, with Smith 11 points below as the field battles for the coveted championship spots. Sawalich’s absence removes a competitor with nine top-10 finishes, three top-fives, and nine DNFs in 31 starts this season, though he ultimately did not qualify for the playoffs.
What’s Next for Joe Gibbs Racing and Sawalich
As this Joe Gibbs Racing Xfinity Update unfolds, the team focuses on Martinsville with Bonsignore in the car, while medical evaluation and recovery remain the top priority for Sawalich. The outcome of this weekend’s race will finalize the championship lineup, and Sawalich continues working through the official NASCAR concussion protocol under medical supervision, aiming for a safe return to racing when cleared.
Joe Gibbs Racing announces William Sawalich to miss Saturday's Xfinity Series race at Martinsville due to concussion-like symptoms. Sawalich was involved in a crash during last week's race at Talladega. Justin Bonsignore to drive the No. 18 car in Sawalich's absence.
— Jordan Bianchi (@Jordan_Bianchi) October 22, 2025
I’m disappointed to not be in the car this weekend, but my health is my number one priority. I’m feeling better every day and working with Dr. Collins at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center and NASCAR to go through their concussion protocol to return to the track as soon…
— William Sawalich (@WilliamSawalich) October 22, 2025
