The NASCAR family is rallying around Joe Gibbs Racing (JGR) President JD Gibbs as he undergoes treatment for brain function difficulties.
JGR released a statement saying Gibbs is suffering from "speech and processing issues" most likely stemming from an earlier head injury.
The 46-year-old played defensive back at Virginia's College of William & Mary, and had a short career as a race car driver. According to his father, Gibbs also participated in extreme sports such as snowboarding and mountain biking. No specific injury was publicly identified as the cause of Gibbs' condition.
NASCAR Chairman and CEO Brian France spoke of the importance of the Gibbs family in a statement.
"All members of the NASCAR and France family extend our thoughts and prayers to JD Gibbs and his loved ones," he said.
"We've all watched JD grow up within our community, and he always has represented himself, his family, the entire Joe Gibbs Racing organisation and NASCAR with the utmost professionalism, enthusiasm and energy.
"We wish him the best during this time and eagerly anticipate his recovery."
JD's father is JGR team owner and Super Bowl champion Joe Gibbs. Current and former JGR drivers also offered positive thoughts to the family.
"Thinking about JD and the whole Gibbs famly," Denny Hamlin tweeted. "I get the privilege to drive for this family organization each weekend for the last 10 years."
Three-time NASCAR champion and former JGR driver Tony Stewart posted a thoughtful tweet. "Hoping the best for JD Gibbs and the entire Gibbs family," he said. "Such a huge honour to drive and learn from a great family."
Gibbs, who is a Christian, will continue his work in the ministry as he undergoes treatment. His day-to-day responsibilities at the team shop will also continue, although his presence on the racetrack will be limited. The location of Gibbs treatment is undisclosed.
