Stewart Friesen, a veteran of the NASCAR Truck Series, was seriously injured during a Super DIRTcar Series race at Autodrome Drummond in Drummondville, Quebec. While competing in a big block dirt modified event, his car became airborne after hitting the outside wall, then slammed back down before being struck by another vehicle.
The 42-year-old Friesen sustained a fractured pelvis and a broken right leg. He underwent several surgeries and was later transported back to the United States for further treatment.
Christopher Bell Steps in to Drive for Halmar Friesen Racing
Even with Friesen sidelined due to his injuries, his team remains in the playoffs thanks to his previous victory at Michigan. To keep the season moving forward, Halmar Friesen Racing has announced that Christopher Bell, a renowned NASCAR Cup Series driver, will take over driving duties for the No. 52 truck at Watkins Glen International.
I want to thank everyone for their outreach and support as I continue to recover,
said Friesen.
I know Christopher will give our truck a great run. We will be watching and cheering the team on this Friday.
—Stewart Friesen, Halmar Friesen Racing Toyota
Christopher Bell’s Experience and Connection to the Team
Christopher Bell has strong ties to the team and the sport. Like Friesen, Bell drives for Toyota and boasts significant experience in the NASCAR Truck Series. The 2017 Truck Series champion last competed in the series in 2023, finishing fifth at Las Vegas Motor Speedway. Over his career, Bell has collected seven Truck Series wins in 57 starts and currently holds 12 victories in the NASCAR Cup Series, including three this year.
I was honored to receive the call to run this truck for Stewart, a fellow dirt racer and Toyota teammate, in Watkins Glen,
said Bell.
I’ve spent time with the team these past few days and we are working hard to continue the great season Stewart has had and deliver a great finish for him and his partners.
—Christopher Bell
Team Plans for the Remainder of the Season and Playoffs
While Bell’s presence will bolster Halmar Friesen Racing for the upcoming race, the team will need to rely on various drivers throughout Friesen’s recovery. NASCAR rules prevent full-time Cup drivers with over three years of experience from competing in lower series during the playoffs, which means Bell will be unavailable when the championship rounds begin. This will require the team to strategize carefully to maintain its strong position in the Truck Series playoff standings.
