Ryan Newman could have emerged victorious in the Daytona 500 auto race held at Daytona International Speedway, Florida, on Monday had he not met a crash that caused his car to hit head-first into the boundary, go airborne, and fall upside down before catching fire. He was leading the last lap of the race.

Newman’s vehicle was hit on the driver’s side window by fellow racer Corey LaJoie’s oncoming car following the crash which caused it to skid down the track and burst into flames. Contestant Denny Hamlin finished first in the race.

Emergency crews removed Newman from his wrecked car and shifted into an ambulance, which then transported him to Halifax Medical Center where he was listed in serious condition. Doctors, however, assured that his injuries were not life-threatening.

“Ryan Newman is being treated at Halifax Medical Center. He is in serious condition, but doctors have indicated his injuries are not life threatening,” NASCAR said in a tweet on Tuesday. “We appreciate your thoughts and prayers and ask that you respect the privacy of Ryan and his family during this time. We appreciate your patience and cooperation and we will provide more information as it becomes available.”

Drivers and fans alike reacted to the news on social media with prayers for Newman’s speedy recovery. President Donald Trump tweeted, “Praying for Ryan Newman, a great and brave @NASCAR driver!”

The 42-year-old racer won the 2008 Daytona 500 on the last lap. It would have marked his second victory in Daytona 500 had he won on Monday. Newman, in his 19 full seasons in the NASCAR Cup Series, secured 18 cup wins. He also won the Sunoco Rookie of the Year award in 2002, according to Roush Fenway Racing’s website.

Competitors drive their cars at the start of the Le Mans 24-hour sportscar race in Le Mans
Competitors drive their cars at the start of the Le Mans 24-hour sportscar race in Le Mans Reuters
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