Daytona 500 winner Trevor Bayne diagnosed with multiple sclerosis

Bayne, who won the 2011 Daytona 500 as a rookie with the Wood Brothers team, and his current squad Roush Fenway Racing announced the news on Tuesday in a statement.

It said Bayne has undergone extensive testing at the Mayo Clinic and got clearance both by doctors and NASCAR to continue racing in the series.

"I've never been more driven to compete," said Bayne, whose sister also has multiple sclerosis.

"My goals are the same as they've been since I started racing. I want to compete at the highest level and I want to win races and championships. I am in the best shape I've ever been in and I feel good.

"There are currently no symptoms and I'm committed to continuing to take the best care of my body as possible."

Bayne, the youngest ever winner in Daytona, was sidelined for five races during the 2011 season after symptoms that were then associated to an insect bite.

He currently lies sixth in the Nationwide standings and will continue to race in the championship in 2014.

"We are 100 per cent supportive of Trevor and his ability to compete in a race car," said Roush Fenway team owner Jack Roush. "I have full confidence in Trevor and his partners have all expressed that same confidence and support.

"As with all of our drivers, we look forward to standing behind Trevor and providing him with all of the tools he needs as he continues to develop in his young career."