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Dario Franchitti is forced to stop racing following an October 6 car crash which caused spinal and ankle injuries as well as concussion. The four-time IndyCar champion delivered the sad news on Thursday, November 14.

"Since my racing accident in Houston, I have been in the expert care of some of the leading doctors and nurses, all of whom have made my health, my safety and my recovery their top priority. I am eternally grateful for the medical care I have received over the last several weeks. I'd also like to thank my family and friends for their unbelievable support," Ashley Judd's estranged husband said in a statement posted on his Twitter.

"One month removed from the crash, and based upon the expert advice of the doctors who have treated and assessed my head and spinal injuries post-accident, it is their best medical opinion that I must stop racing," he added. "They have made it very clear that the risks involved in further racing are too great and could be detrimental to my long term well-being. Based on this medical advice, I have no choice but to stop."

When asked of the retirement news on Twitter, Judd replied, "Yes, with an extraordinary career, legendary achievements, aplomb & style." Judd added in another post, calling Franchitti "one-of-a kind-racer" and a "gentleman" with dazzling accomplishment.

A sad day but I'm eternally grateful... pic.twitter.com/h9ozPEOf7S

— Dario Franchitti (@dariofranchitti) November 14, 2013