Brian Vickers Hospitalized, to Miss Dover

Brian Vickers, the 26-year old driver of Red Bull Racing, has been hospitalized for an undisclosed medical condition yesterday and will not start the Dover International Speedway race this weekend. The announcement was made on the official Red Bull Racing website, through a press release which does not detail Vickers' condition. According to rumors, he has been admitted to a hospital in Charlotte, NC on Wednesday evening.

"Red Bull Racing Team officials announced Thursday that due to a recent diagnosis of a medical condition, Brian Vickers will not compete in this weekend's NASCAR racing activities at Dover International Speedway," the statement reads.

According to the team, Vickers will be replaced behind the wheel of the No. 83 Red Bull Toyota by Casey Mears, leaving in turn his Tommy Baldwin Racing car in the hands of Johnny Sauter.

"It is unfortunate that I will not be able to participate in the Dover race. Casey is a good friend of mine, and I know he will do his best for the No. 83 team this weekend," Vickers said.

"Our main concern right now is with Brian and his health and recovery," added Jay Frye, Red Bull Racing Team general manager and vice president. "All things are looking good at the moment. This is just a minor setback. We appreciate Casey filling in this weekend and know he will represent the team well."

Vickers is currently ranked 20th in the Sprint Cup, with his last achievement being a 10th place at the Showtime Southern 500.