CHARLOTTE, N.C. — NASCAR driver Brian Vickers underwent surgery to repair a hole in his heart for a second time, and the recovery period will cause him to miss the start of the 2015 season.
Vickers said in a statement Monday issued by Michael Waltrip Racing that his previous health issues have given him "a very keen understanding of my body" that helped him recognize something wasn't right last week. Tests revealed his body was rejecting the artificial patch he received in a 2010 procedure to fix the hole in his heart.
He said he had another "corrective" surgery Saturday to repair the hole.
"I have faced obstacles before and it has made victory that much sweeter and I know that will be the case again," the 31-year-old said. "I will need plenty of time, rest and rehab, but this temporary setback will not stop me from pursuing my dream of becoming a NASCAR Sprint Cup champion."
MWR did not name a replacement driver for the No. 55 Toyota, or address how long Vickers may be sidelined.
"MWR has plenty to consider and we will confer with our partners, including (sponsor) Aaron's and Toyota," said MWR co-owner Rob Kauffman. "As this is fresh news, we will adjust our future plans as more information becomes available."
It's the third major health issue to sideline Vickers since 2010.
Vickers missed the final five races of the 2013 season because he was placed on blood thinners to treat a blood clot in his right calf. He also missed 25 races during the 2010 season when clots were discovered in his legs and lungs.
