SAO PAULO — IndyCar points leader Helio Castroneves sustained minor injuries after crashing during practice for a stock car race in Brazil.

The three-time Indy 500 winner sustained cuts on his legs and had neck and back pain after the crash Friday in Ribeirao Preto.

"Thanks for the support," Castroneves tweeted. "The pain killers make me feel good. The good news I didn't break anything."

He left the wrecked car on his own but was taken to a medical center in an ambulance as a precaution.

Castroneves' spokesman, Americo Teixeira, said the Penske Racing driver was doing well and the injuries were not serious. He said Castroneves was expected to compete in Sunday's race, although clearance from doctors would not be given until more tests were conducted on his neck and back.

Seeking his first IndyCar title, Castroneves has a 31-point lead over Scott Dixon.