Josef Newgarden has been transported to a Des Moines, Iowa area hospital after fainting outside his hauler following the HyVee Salute to Farmers 300 at Iowa Speedway.

The 31-year-old allegedly fainted after exiting his hauler following his wreck out of the lead on Lap 235.

The IndyCar medical staff evaluated and released Newgarden following his crash out of the 300-lap event. Several fans reported seeing Newgarden pass out upon exiting his hauler.

Dr. Geoffrey Billows, director of IndyCar medical services, said that Newgarden was awake and alert and a local hospital can provide better examination.

“We want to send him downtown for better evaluation because we don’t have more advanced imaging or radiographs. He’s awake and talking to us.”

UPDATE: at 9:56pm CST, Team Penske issued a statement:

Team Penske Statement on Josef Newgarden: 

 

“Josef Newgarden was involved in an incident late in Sunday’s race at Iowa Speedway, after which he was evaluated and released from the infield care center. Following the conclusion of the race Newgarden lost consciousness and fell, sustaining a cut on the back of his head. Due to the 45-minute drive to MercyOne Des Moines Medical Center and the traffic outside the racetrack, the medical helicopter was determined to be the best mode of transportation. After being evaluated, all scans were negative. Newgarden will be held overnight for observation. Following INDYCAR protocol, Newgarden will be evaluated by the INDYCAR medical staff on Thursday