IndyCar driver Stefan Wilson needed 2 titanium rods, 8 screws in back after Indy 500 practice crash

A scary crash during a practice run ahead of the Indianapolis 500 cost Stefan Wilson an opportunity to race in the biggest event of the year. At the time of the accident, not much was known about the potential recovery time or the severity of the injuries. Now, the driver is revealing some of the details regarding his fractured vertebrae.

In a social media post this week, Wilson revealed that doctors placed two titanium rods and eight screws in his back. Shortly after the crash, he admitted that just getting out of bed was a difficult task.

“3 weeks since having 2 titanium rods and 8 screws put into my back. The first few days it was hard to even get out of the hospital bed, let alone walk,” Wilson wrote. “I made it home to Colorado, and today I made it out onto my usual run route, but just to walk.”

3 weeks since having 2 titanium rods and 8 screws put into my back. The first few days it was hard to even get out of the hospital bed, let alone walk. I made it home to Colorado, and today I made it out onto my usual Run route, but just to walk. #IsItMay2024Yet #IndyCar #Indy500 pic.twitter.com/jV1Vc79wZB

— Stefan Wilson (@stef_wilson) June 15, 2023

“Daunting to look back at my PB and see how much more progress I will have to make, but pleased with how far I’ve come so far. Appreciate all the support and everyone reaching out to see how I’m doing.”

Though the injuries will take some time for a full recovery, Wilson ended his initial tweet with the hashtag #IsItMay2024Yet. It’s an indication that he plans to participate in next year’s Indy 500.

Considering the ugly scene from Indianapolis back in May, it’s fantastic to see Wilson continues down the road of recovery. The injuries could’ve been far worse.

Wilson’s injury occurred due to practice crash

Wilson’s crash occurred during a practice run before the 2023 Indianapolis 500. Katherine Legge’s car collided with Wilson’s between turns one and two at the track.

Legge emerged from the car fine and was able to compete in the Indy 500. Wilson had to be taken to a hospital via ambulance, though he gave everyone a thumbs up as he left the track.

“The cars were all checking up and I lifted as much as I could and downshifted, hit the brakes but it wasn’t enough as they were checking up,” Legge told reporters. “So, I ran into the back of Stefan and we both ended up in the wall.”

Another veteran driver, Graham Rahal, replaced Wilson behind the wheel for the massive racing event.

We’re sure it will take Wilson some serious time to recover, but hopefully he’s fully healthy and prepared for next year’s Indy 500.