CONCORD, N.C. (AP) — NASCAR Sprint Cup points leader Jeff Gordon is in his car ready to start the Coca-Cola 600.
Gordon, who will start in the 27th spot Sunday, cut short his practice runs Saturday because of back spasms and there was some concern whether or not he would be able to race.
The No. 24 team has backup driver Regan Smith on standby should Gordon be unable to complete the 400-lap race.
The four-time champion received treatment after the practice session.
Gordon said Saturday that while he’s had back spasms in the past, this was “a little different” and he didn’t feel it would do him any good to continue practicing.
Gordon is off to a great start this season with eight top-10 finishes in the first 11 races.
Copyright 2014 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.