Zach Shepperd Cleared to Return After Scary Thornton Crash

Zach Shepperd was involved in a crash off the Turn of Death during Round 8 of Thornton. His crash caused him to sustain various injuries, including a major concussion. Doctors thought that he would not be able to return until next season, but Zach's progress has been remarkable. They have said that he may not be fully up to 100% by the time Round 21 starts, but to possibly expect him back in the car as soon as Daytona.

However, with this announcement came the news that Team Flame Racing did not want Shepperd to return to their car, as they said Gideon Giegers was having enough success to be replaced. Shepperd has thus taken over the rights to the #80 from Lafter Stucolé and will run in the 80 for CT Development. Stucolé moved from the 80 to the 79 preceding the Charlotte race and is now running for a self-funded operation. Shepperd will not make the Chase, but we will see how he progresses throughout the final leg of the season.