23XI Racing, the NASCAR team co-owned by NBA legend Michael Jordan and driver Denny Hamlin, announced Saturday that Riley Herbst would not compete in the Coke Zero Sugar 400 at Daytona International Speedway due to health reasons.
The decision came hours before the scheduled race, with the team citing that Herbst woke up with "lingering effects" from a severe crash the previous weekend at New Hampshire. Herbst's car sustained heavy impact after being spun and hitting the wall, with another car subsequently colliding with his stationary vehicle.
Despite the incident, Herbst had participated in practice and qualifying sessions at Daytona just five days later, recording the fifth-fastest time. However, the team concluded that it was in his best interest to withdraw from the race.
Harrison Burton, son of NASCAR legend Jeff Burton, was called upon for a last-minute replacement in the No. 35 car. Burton is the current reserve and simulator driver for Legacy Motor Club. Corey Heim, a reserve driver for 23XI Racing, is also entered in the race in a part-time capacity and is slated to take over Herbst's seat in 2027 for full-time Cup Series racing.
Herbst has been a part of Jordan's team for the past two seasons. He played a notable role earlier in the year when teammate Tyler Reddick secured a victory in the Daytona 500. Michael Jordan publicly praised Herbst's actions on the final lap, which helped protect Reddick's lead during a critical moment.
Co-owner Denny Hamlin has previously expressed confidence in Herbst's progression, noting significant improvement in his performance. Herbst is widely expected to move to Legacy Motor Club in 2027 to fill their third car slot.