TALLADEGA, ALABAMA - OCTOBER 18: William Sawalich, driver of the #18 Soundgear Toyota, waves to fans as he walks onstage during driver intros prior to the NASCAR Xfinity Series United Rentals 250 at Talladega Superspeedway on October 18, 2025 in Talladega, Alabama. (Photo by Sean Gardner/Getty Images) | Getty Images
TALLADEGA, ALABAMA - OCTOBER 18: William Sawalich, driver of the #18 Soundgear Toyota, waves to fans as he walks onstage during driver intros prior to the NASCAR Xfinity Series United Rentals 250 at Talladega Superspeedway on October 18, 2025 in Talladega, Alabama. (Photo by Sean Gardner/Getty Images) | Getty Images

William Sawalich to miss Phoenix race; Justin Bonsignore to sub

Joe Gibbs Racing announced today that William Sawalich will miss Saturday’s NASCAR Xfinity Series race at Phoenix Raceway after experiencing concussion-like symptoms following his accident at Talladega Superspeedway. In his absence, Justin Bonsignore will drive the No. 18 SoundGear Toyota GR Supra this weekend.

“Unfortunately, I didn’t get medically cleared to compete this weekend in Phoenix,” Sawalich said. “As a driver, you want to be behind the wheel for your team, but I understand the importance of being fully ready before returning. As I continue to work toward getting back to 100%, I want to express my sincere appreciation to Dr. Collins and his UPMC staff. I also want to thank Jeff Meendering, the No. 18 team and everyone at Joe Gibbs Racing for their unwavering support this season. We will be prepared and ready to go when the season begins in Daytona this February.”

— Joe Gibbs Racing —