Stewart Friesen recovery update: Friesen has taken his first unaided steps after suffering serious injuries in a violent dirt-track accident at Autodrome Drummond in Quebec on July 28. The NASCAR Truck Series driver’s progress marks a major milestone in his journey to return to racing.
First Steps After Life-Threatening Injuries
Just weeks after a devastating crash during a Super DIRTcar Series event, Stewart Friesen was seen walking on his own in a video shared by his team, Halmar Friesen Racing. The footage showed the driver, who had previously been confined to intensive trauma care, upright and moving without assistance, showing hope for his supporters and colleagues.
During the accident, Friesen’s car lost control on the backstretch, collided with the outer wall, flipped violently, caught fire, and was then hit by another racer. Despite the severity of the wreck, safety crews found Friesen alert when they reached the mangled car. Doctors diagnosed him with an unstable pelvic fracture and a broken right leg, as well as a large hematoma that required emergency surgery.
“Big day, we have a walking driver! 🚶🏻,” the post was captioned.
After remaining in the hospital for over a week, Friesen was transferred to a specialized trauma center in New York for further treatment and physical therapy. Afterward, he returned home to continue his recovery surrounded by friends and family.
Impact on Racing Career and Team Adjustments
Friesen’s promising 2025 season was cut short by the crash. Prior to his injuries, he had broken a long losing streak with a victory at Michigan International Speedway on June 7, earning a spot in the Truck Series playoffs. He also notched three top-5 and six top-10 finishes, highlighting his competitive return before the accident interrupted his championship hopes.
Following the crash, Halmar Friesen Racing appointed Kaden Honeycutt as Friesen’s replacement at Richmond, and Christopher Bell filled in for one race at Watkins Glen. The team decided not to request a medical exception for playoff eligibility, focusing instead on Friesen’s health and long-term outlook.
Setting Sights on NASCAR Truck Season Return
In September, Friesen made an emotional visit to the Truck Series paddock at New Hampshire Motor Speedway, still relying on crutches and continuing intensive rehabilitation. His return provided a boost for his teammates, doctors, and friends who have supported his recovery.
Looking ahead, Friesen has set a clear goal to return as a NASCAR Truck driver for the 2026 season, with hopes of competing at the Daytona International Speedway opener on February 13. He expressed motivation to potentially race earlier if his right foot regains strength and mobility, keeping open the possibility of participating in the World Finals, although he acknowledged that might be overly optimistic.
“That’s the goal (returning to Daytona in 2026) we set right away. If I could get a little bit more mobility and range of motion back in this right foot, I’d like to be back, in at least a dirt car, maybe for World Finals. But I think that’s super wishful thinking. … That’s the goal. We’re going to work as hard as we can,” Stewart Friesen told Fox Sports’ Bob Pockrass.
Friesen’s journey through recovery has inspired the NASCAR community, from fellow drivers like Christopher Bell to longtime fans. The next several months will be crucial in determining if he returns to top competition. His determination and the advances in trauma care underscore the resilience required to overcome such life-altering events.
