Gordon's back still hurting him

TALLADEGA, Ala. (AP) -Jeff Gordon says the back pain he had last week at Phoenix International Raceway has yet to go away and he expects to drive with some discomfort this season.

Gordon complained about his back after last week's race. He says the pain has not subsided and he often has back spasms. He doesn't expect the discomfort to go away anytime soon.

Gordon says the tracks in Richmond, Va.; Martinsville, Va.; Bristol, Tenn.; and the road courses could affect him later this year.

The Sprint Cup standings leader says his health is not an excuse for a poor performance.