Appeal Denied Hendricks

via NASCAR press release

National Motorsports Appeals Panel Statement

(June 9, 2015)

The National Motorsports Appeals Panel today heard and considered the appeal of a P1 penalty issued on May 27, 2015 to Hendrick Motorsports relative to NASCAR Sprint Cup Series vehicle #48 at Charlotte Motor Speedway.

The penalty concerns the following section in the 2015 NASCAR rule book:

12.5.3.1 – Warnings and P1 penalty options:

.b: Multiple warnings issued to the same team member or team will result in one or more P1 penalties.

.c: If the same team receives two warnings during the same event, or two warnings during two consecutive events, whether the events are championship or non-championship, then this may result in one or more … P1 penalties at NASCAR’s discretion.


The original penalty assessed was the last choice in the pit selection process for the next event.

Upon hearing the testimony, the decision of the National Motorsports Appeals Panel is:

·         Warnings are not appealable. NASCAR acted correctly in issuing a P1 penalty after the second warning.

·         But, the panel must also decide if there has been a violation of the rules (Section 14.15.1.b).

·         In the hearing, there was a preponderance of evidence presented that the side skirt violation which led to a warning did occur. There was conflicting evidence about the inspection violation which led to the second warning instead of preponderance.

·         Since only one of the two violations were shown by a preponderance of the evidence, the panel rescinds the P1 penalty.

The panel consisted of the following three individuals:

Richard Gore
David Hall
Jay Signore

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Email:

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RYAN NEWMAN's Team Penalized Hard For Tire Modification

Someone took a chance and now Ryan Newman is paying dearly for it with a 50-point penalty:

via press release

The No. 31 team that competes in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series has been penalized for rules infractions discovered as a result of NASCAR’s post-event tire audit conducted following the March 22 race at Auto Club Speedway.

These infractions amount to a P5 level penalty and violate the following Sections in the 2015 NASCAR rule book:

12.1: Actions detrimental to stock car racing

20.16: Wheels and tires

            A. Any device, modification, or procedure to the tire or wheel, including the valve stem hardware, that is used to release pressure, beyond normal pressure adjustments, from the tire and/or inner shield, will not be permitted.

20.16.2: Tires

            F. Modifications to the tires, by treatment or any other means, will not be permitted.

Section 12.5.3.5.1 lists P5 Penalty Violation examples that could include but are not limited to:

A. Effecting, modifying and/or altering the standard tires in any way, other than through authorized means such as tire pressure adjustments within the recommended range, permitted tire cooling when mounted on the race vehicle; or heat-cycling on the race vehicle on the race track earlier in the event.

12.5.3.5.2: Minimum P5 Penalty Options (includes all four points below):

            A. Loss of 50 championship driver and owner points, regardless of whether the violation occurred during a Championship race or not

            B. $75,000-$125,000 fine

            C. Suspension for the next six series Championship Races, plus any non-championship races or special events which might occur during that time period, for the crew chief and any other team members as determined by NASCAR

            D. Probation through the end of the calendar year for all suspended members, or for a six-month period following the issuance of the penalty notice if that period spans across two consecutive seasons

12.5.3.5.3: P5 Level infractions detected during post-race inspection:

If the infraction is detected during post-race inspection, then the following penalty elements will be added to those listed previously in this section:

            A. Loss of an additional 25 Championship driver and owner points; regardless of whether it was a Championship Race or not

            B. Loss of an additional $50,000

As a result of these violations, crew chief Luke Lambert has been fined a total of $125,000 ($75,000 plus $50,000), suspended from the next six NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Championship races, plus any non-championship races or special events which might occur during that time period, and been placed on NASCAR probation through Dec. 31. James Bender, team tire technician, and Philip Surgen, team engineer, have been suspended from the next six NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Championship races, plus any non-championship races or special events which might occur during that time period, and been placed on NASCAR probation through Dec. 31.

Driver Ryan Newman and car owner Richard Childress each have been penalized with the loss of 75 (50 plus 25) championship driver and championship car owner points.


“NASCAR takes very seriously its responsibility to govern and regulate the rules of the sport in order to ensure competitive balance,” said Steve O’Donnell, NASCAR Executive Vice President and Chief Racing Development Officer. “We’ve been very clear that any modifications to race vehicle tires is an unacceptable practice and will not be tolerated.”

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NASCAR Fines The Wrong People, Networks Are NASCAR Dumbasses

Last weekend after the NASCAR Sprint Cup at Charlotte Motor Speedway, there was quite the fracas between drivers.  Denny Hamlin and Brad Keselowski were playing car tag and spinning each other on the track during the warm down laps.  Matt Kenseth charged up behind Brad Keselowski, in front of cameras, blind siding him and getting him in a headlock.  Word was that Hamlin and Keselowski were having an angry car chase through the garages, inches from pedestrians.

And after all that, NASCAR fines Tony Stewart and Brad Keselowski (BK).

Oh, yes, after BK was spun, he bumped into Tony Stewart's rear bumper. In reply, Stewart put it in reverse and "floored" it, nearly demolishing the front end of BK's car.

Where do I begin?

There was concern on the air from drivers about the car wars game that went on, on the track, between Hamlin and BK. The think was, they were talking about getting hit while they were removing their helmets and safety gear.

I for one, for years, have worried about when drivers start dismantling their safety gear while they're still on the track and would look forward to the day that they are required to retain all gear in place, until they're off the racing and pit stalls surface.

It is just too dangerous to be pulling off your gear when there's the potential for someone to pull an ass-hat move while a driver sits unprotected.

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There is that anger that is always just under the skin of Tony Stewart. I presumed it was his temper, combined with something BK did, considering everyone seemed mad at BK.

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Then there was Matt Kenseth. Very unlike him, but he was unraveled and wanted a piece of BK. This, after damaging BK's car during a caution flag, in retaliation for something BK did to him.

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And finally, there was Hamlin and BK, including the quickie car chase through the garages. THAT seemed dangerous.

But Hamlin and Kenseth skated somehow while Stewart and BK got the fines, looking like NASCAR was turning a blind eye towards the part that Hamlin played in the situation.

But then there was the media coverage of the event after the fact.

First things first... if you're going to cover an event, have your reporter watch the last 30 minutes of any telecast before the start reporting bulls*!

No. 11 Team Penalized For Rules Infraction At Indianapolis

via press release

The No. 11 team that competes in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series has been penalized for a rules infraction discovered in post-race inspection July 27 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

This infraction is a P5 level penalty which is outlined in Section 12-4.5 A (9) of the 2014 NASCAR rule book:

Approved parts that fail or are improperly installed to fail in their intended use of great importance (e.g.; rear wheel well panels that fail and allow air evacuation in the trunk area; oil box cover that fails and allows air evacuation in the driver compartment; shifter boot cover that fails and allows air evacuation through the floor pan).

This infraction violates Sections:

12-1 - Actions detrimental to stock car racing;

20-2.1 – Car body must be acceptable to NASCAR officials and meet the following requirements:

·         K – Any device or ductwork that permits air to pass from one area of the interior of the car to another, or to the outside of the car, will not be permitted. This includes, but is not limited to, the inside of the car to the trunk area, or the floors, firewalls, crush panels and wheel wells passing air into or out of the car;

·         L – All seams of the interior sheet metal and all interior sheet metal to exterior sheet metal contact point must be sealed and caulked. This includes, but is not limited to, floors, firewalls, wheel wells, package trays, crush panels and any removable covers;

20-3.4 - All references to the inspection surface in sub-section 20-3.4 have been determined with the front lower edge of both main frame rails set at six inches and the rear lower edge of both main frame rails set at eight inches. For driver protection, all firewalls, floors, tunnels, and access panels must be installed and completely secured in place when the car is in competition;

20-3.4.5 - A rear firewall, including any removable panels or access doors, constructed using magnetic sheet steel a minimum of 22 gage (0.031 inch thick), must be located between the trunk area and the driver’s compartment and must be welded in place. Block-off plates/covers used in rear firewalls in place of blowers, oil coolers, etc., must be constructed of 22 gage (0.031 inch thick) magnetic sheet steel. Block-off plates/covers must be installed with positive fasteners and sealed to prevent air leakage. Carbon fiber or aluminum block-off plates/covers will not be permitted.

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Per Section 12-4.5 B, the minimum P5 penalty includes:

NASCAR Announces Decision Following Review Of Race At Richmond International Raceway

Via press release

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (Sept. 13, 2013) – Following a comprehensive review of all available audio and video communications from last Saturday night's NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race at Richmond International Raceway, along with interviews with team personnel, NASCAR announced Friday the following decision:

       Both the Front Row Motorsports and Penske Racing organizations have been placed on NASCAR probation until Dec. 31 for violating Section 12-1 (Actions detrimental to stock car racing).

      A 13th car – the No. 24 – would be added to this year's Chase for the NASCAR Sprint Cup.

"Based on all of our findings this week, we determined both Front Row Motorsports and Penske Racing organizations would be placed on probation for the remainder of this season," said Brian France, NASCAR Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. "Additionally, based upon the totality of our findings, to be fair and equitable we decided that adding a 13th car to this year's Chase is the appropriate action.

"Beginning with our decision Monday, which resulted in an unprecedented team penalty, and continuing with further examination of actions involving two other race teams, it is clear to us that attempts to manipulate the results impacted the Chase field.

"The integrity of our sport remains the cornerstone of NASCAR, and our actions this week speak to our commitment to ensure a level playing field for all competitors."

Additionally, NASCAR will conduct a mandatory meeting with drivers, owners, crew chiefs and other team personnel tomorrow to address this issue moving forward.

Michael Waltrip Racing Statement On Richmond Penalty

It's been a crazy day in NASCAR... After the incident with Michael Waltrip Racing on Saturday, NASCAR went to work and after reviewing all the information at their disposal, they handed down penalties.

I didn't expect that.

And after the penalties were handed out, I was quietly expecting some kind of appeal from MWR.

But instead, the team got in front of this debacle they created, and said they accept the penalties and will move forward.

Leave it to Waltrip to hit it big in the penalties department again.  Remember the "not jet fuel" issue from 2007?  Well, this one seems just as insidious.

The thing is, had they not been so blatant about this stunt, from the obvious radio chatter to the lame duck explanations, and Michael telling Martin he has the best teammates ever... it all just added up to the layman watching it.  Who knows what NASCAR had access to.

I remember hearing the rumored (alleged) stories about his older brother, Darrel, and though that kind of stuff can't happen in this era.  But Mikey keeps trying... that's for sure.

Check out the press release MWR released this evening"

"Michael Waltrip Racing accepts the penalties issued by NASCAR this evening and plans to move forward in the 2013 season.

Michael Waltrip, founder and co-owner of MWR: “What occurred on the No. 55 radio at the end of Saturday night’s race in Richmond was a split-second decision made by team spotter Ty Norris to bring the No. 55 to pit lane and help a teammate earn a place in the Chase. We regret the decision and its impact. We apologize to NASCAR, our fellow competitors, partners and fans who were disappointed in our actions. We will learn from this and move on. As general manager, Ty Norris has been an integral part of Michael Waltrip Racing since its founding and has my and (co-owner) Rob Kauffman’s full support.”"

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Michael Waltrip Racing PENALIZED Following Richmond Race, Newman Benefits

I'm surprised, but it looks like justice is being served by NASCAR after the questionable tactics that Michael Waltrip Racing appeared to pull off.

NASCAR came down with a hammer on MWR....  And Ryan Newman sees the light of day!!!

See the press release below

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NASCAR Penalizes Michael Waltrip Racing

Following Event At Richmond International Raceway

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (Sept. 9, 2013) – NASCAR has issued penalties to Michael Waltrip Racing following the sanctioning body’s review of Saturday’s race at Richmond International Raceway.

MWR was found to have violated Section 12-4 (Actions detrimental to stock car racing). As a result, MWR’s three teams in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series (No. 15, 55, 56) have been penalized with the loss of 50 championship driver and 50 championship owner points, respectively.

These point penalties are assessed following the season’s 26th regular season race and not after the seeding for the Chase for the NASCAR Sprint Cup. Therefore, the point total for the No. 56 car driven by Martin Truex Jr. is reduced to 691, putting him in 17th position and eliminating him from the second Wild Card berth for the Chase field. Ryan Newman, driver of the No. 39 car, now moves up into the Chase as the second Wild Card participant.

NASCAR has also fined the MWR organization $300,000 and indefinitely suspended Ty Norris, MWR Executive Vice President/General Manager and spotter for the No. 55 car, for violating Section 12-4. The three crew chiefs – Brian Pattie (No. 15), Scott Miller (No. 55) and Chad Johnston (No. 56) – have all been placed on NASCAR probation until Dec. 31.

“Based upon our review of Saturday night’s race at Richmond, it is our determination that the MWR organization attempted to manipulate the outcome of the race,” said Robin Pemberton, NASCAR vice president of competition. “As the sport’s sanctioning body, it is our responsibility to ensure there is a fair and level playing field for all of our competitors and this action today reflects our commitment to that.”

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NASCAR Will Not Penalize Any Team For Roof Flap Infractions

In a confusing bit of news, NASCAR announced today that they will not be penalizing any team that had the "illegal" modified roof flap spacers.

Competition inspections last week at Daytona had uncovered 31 teams across both the Cup and Nationwide series had the illegally modified spacer components.

NASCAR vice president of competition Robin Pemberton said that they determined that the altered parts did not impact functionality or safety aspects of the roof flaps, and that the on-track competition would not have been impacted by these lighter spacers.

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I'm pretty confused.  I've seen many an alteration that has been penalized in the past that might have fallen under that category of "not impacting competition."

Wasn't it Carl Long who had a tiny engine infraction and was smacked with a $200k penalty?

This is the first time I've seen where NASCAR let the rule breakers slide. 

Was it because too many teams were doing it? 

Was there a lapse in rules verbiage that allowed teams an out?

And if any of those points I just questioned are valid, did NASCAR just not want to deal with 31 different appeal processes?

Wow...  that's all I'm saying.

Everyone got to skate this time around!

But now I'll wonder how long it will take for some of the noise makers out there to start grumbling about consistency from NASCAR.

To me, it seems inevitable.

-Bruce
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Joe Gibbs Racing Penalties Amended By NASCAR Appeals Board

I'm sure you've heard the news already, but thought I'd toss this out there, just in case you had missed it and you follow this site.

Back on April 23rd, Matt Kenseth won a race, but an engine component was a touch light, as in, almost a feather's worth too light.  But a rules infraction, as NASCAR sees it, is an infraction.

The penalties handed out seemed pretty stiff to fans.  But its a demonstration of how serious NASCAR is about people mucking with the engines in the competition.

Joe Gibbs Racing appeared before the Appeals Board today and they found themselves recipients of some, well, better news, compared to the original fines.

Check out the press release below for details.

 National Stock Car Racing Appeals Panel Statement
(May 8, 2013)

The National Stock Car Racing Appeals Panel today heard and considered the appeal of the No. 20 Joe Gibbs Racing NASCAR Sprint Cup Series team.

The penalties concern Sections 12-1: Actions detrimental to stock car racing; 12-4J: Any determination by NASCAR Officials that race equipment used in the event does not conform to the NASCAR rules detailed in Section 20 of the NASCAR rule book, or has not been approved by NASCAR prior to the event; and 20-5.5.3E: Only solid magnetic steel connecting rods with a minimum weight of 525.0 grams will be permitted. Connecting rod failed to meet minimum connecting rod weight.

The penalties stemmed from a post-race engine inspection April 23 at the NASCAR Research and Development Center.

The original penalties assessed to the No. 20 team were:

·         Crew chief Jason Ratcliff: Fined $200,000 and suspended from NASCAR until the completion of the next six NASCAR Sprint Cup Series championship point events (a period of time that also includes the non-points Sprint All-Star Race)

·         Car owner Joe Gibbs: Loss of 50 championship car owner points; the first place finish from April 21 at Kansas Speedway will not earn bonus points toward the accumulated aggregate car owner points total after the completion of the first 26 events of the current season and will not be credited towards the eligibility for a car owner wild card position; had the owner's license for the No. 20 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series car suspended until the completion of the next six championship point events, therefore being ineligible to receive championship car owner points during that period of time.

·         Driver Matt Kenseth: Loss of 50 championship driver points; the Coors Light Pole award from April 19 at Kansas Speedway will not be allowed for eligibility into the 2014 Sprint Unlimited; the first place finish from April 21 at Kansas Speedway will not earn bonus points toward the accumulated aggregate driver points total after the completion of the first 26 events of the current season and will not be credited towards the eligibility for a driver wild card position.

·         Manufacturer: The loss of five NASCAR Sprint Cup Series manufacturer championship points.

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The Appellants appealed all penalties listed above. The Appellants also requested and were granted a deferral of the suspensions until such time as the hearing could be convened.

Upon hearing the testimony, it was a unanimous decision by the National Stock Car Racing Appeals Panel to amend the original penalties assessed by NASCAR. The amendments are as follows:

·         Crew chief Jason Ratcliff: The $200,000 fine remains intact; NASCAR suspension now covers one championship points event. In addition, he will be placed on NASCAR probation until the completion of the next three championship points events following his reinstatement;

·         Car owner Joe Gibbs: Loss of championship owner points has been reduced to 12. All other components of his penalty were rescinded;

·         Driver Matt Kenseth; Loss of championship driver points has been reduced to 12. All other components of his penalty were rescinded;

·         Manufacturer: The loss of NASCAR Sprint Cup Series manufacturer championship points has been increased to seven.

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Penske Fines Upheld, Suspensions Modified

If you were curious on the outcome of Penske addressing NACSAR's Chief Appellate Officer about their being snagged during an equipment inspection back in early April at Texas, in  nutshell:

Fines have all been upheld and the suspensions have been reduced to 2 points races and the 1 non-points race event.

See the press release below:


NATIONAL STOCK CAR RACING - CHIEF APPELLATE OFFICER STATEMENT


On May 7, 2013 the Chief Appellate Officer heard and considered the appeal of the penalties from the No. 2 and No. 22 Penske Racing NASCAR Sprint Cup Series teams.  These penalties stemmed from pre-race inspection for the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series at Texas Motor Speedway April 13.


The penalties concern Sections 12-1: Actions detrimental to stock car racing; 12-4J: Any determination by NASCAR Officials that race equipment used in the event does not conform to the NASCAR rules detailed in Section 20 of the NASCAR rule book, or has not been approved by NASCAR prior to the event; and


20-12: All suspension systems and components must be approved by NASCAR. Prior to being used in competition, all suspension systems and components must be submitted in a completed form/assembly to the office of the NASCAR competition administrator for consideration of approval and approved by NASCAR. Each such part may thereafter be used until NASCAR determines that such part is no longer eligible. All suspension fasteners and mounting hardware must be made of solid magnetic steel. All front end and rear end suspension mounts with mounting hardware assembled must have single round mounting holes that are the correct size for the fastener being used. All front end and rear end suspension mounts and mounting hardware must not allow movement or realignment of any suspension component beyond component normal rotation or suspension travel.



The original penalties assessed to the No. 2 team were:


·         Crew chief (Paul Wolfe): $100,000 fine; suspended from NASCAR until the completion of the next six NASCAR Sprint Cup Series championship points events (plus the non-points NASCAR Sprint All-Star Race); placed on NASCAR probation until Dec. 31;

·         Car chief Jerry Kelley, team engineer Brian Wilson and competition director Travis Geisler (serves as competition director for both the No. 2 and No. 22 cars): Suspended from NASCAR until the completion of the next six NASCAR Sprint Cup Series championship points events (plus the non-points NASCAR Sprint All-Star Race); placed on NASCAR probation until Dec. 31;

·         Car owner Roger Penske: Loss of 25 championship owner points;

·         Driver Brad Keselowski: Loss of 25 championship driver points.


The original penalties assessed to the No. 22 team were:


·         Crew chief (Todd Gordon): $100,000 fine; suspended from NASCAR until the completion of the next six NASCAR Sprint Cup Series championship points events (plus the non-points NASCAR Sprint All-Star Race); placed on NASCAR probation until Dec. 31;

·         Car chief Raymond Fox and team engineer Samuel Stanley: Suspended from NASCAR until the completion of the next six NASCAR Sprint Cup Series championship points events (plus the non-points NASCAR Sprint All-Star Race); placed on NASCAR probation until Dec. 31;

·         Car owner Walt Czarnecki: Loss of 25 championship owner points;

·         Driver Joey Logano: Loss of 25 championship driver points.


The results of the Chief Appellate Officer hearing were:

-          Upholding the fines and points penalties that were originally assessed.

 -          Reducing the suspensions of the seven team members from six NASCAR Sprint Cup Series championship points events (plus the non-points NASCAR Sprint All-Star Race) to two NASCAR Sprint Cup Series championship points events (plus the non-points NASCAR Sprint All-Star Race).


The seven team members in question will be suspended for the next three upcoming NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race weekends at Darlington Speedway and Charlotte Motor Speedway. They will return for the race weekend at Dover International Speedway. They remain on NASCAR probation until Dec. 31.


"After looking at all the facts and data and interpretations from the rule book, I have decided to uphold the original fines and points penalties," said John Middlebrook, Chief Appellate Officer. "However, I have decided to reduce the suspensions of the seven team members involved from six points races and the all-star race to two points races and the all-star race."

John Middlebrook – Chief Appellate Officer

Penske Team Penalties Upheld

If you were wondering about the penalties that the Penske Racing teams incurred recently and the results of their first appeal, here's the low down on that situation, via press release:

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On May 1, 2013, the National Stock Car Racing Appeals Panel heard and considered the appeal of the No. 2 and No. 22 Penske Racing NASCAR Sprint Cup Series teams.


The penalties concern Sections 12-1: Actions detrimental to stock car racing; 12-4J: Any determination by NASCAR Officials that race equipment used in the event does not conform to the NASCAR rules detailed in Section 20 of the NASCAR rule book, or has not been approved by NASCAR prior to the event; and 20-12: All suspension systems and components must be approved by NASCAR. Prior to being used in competition, all suspension systems and components must be submitted in a completed form/assembly to the office of the NASCAR competition administrator for consideration of approval and approved by NASCAR. Each such part may thereafter be used until NASCAR determines that such part is no longer eligible. All suspension fasteners and mounting hardware must be made of solid magnetic steel. All front end and rear end suspension mounts with mounting hardware assembled must have single round mounting holes that are the correct size for the fastener being used. All front end and rear end suspension mounts and mounting hardware must not allow movement or realignment of any suspension component beyond component normal rotation or suspension travel.


The penalties stemmed from a pre-race inspection at Texas Motor Speedway April 13.


The original penalties assessed to the No. 2 team were:



·         Crew chief (Paul Wolfe): $100,000 fine; suspended from NASCAR until the completion of the next six NASCAR Sprint Cup Series championship points events; placed on NASCAR probation until Dec. 31;

·         Car chief Jerry Kelley, team engineer Brian Wilson and team manager Travis Geisler (serves as team manager for both the No. 2 and No. 22 cars): Suspended from NASCAR until the completion of the next six NASCAR Sprint Cup Series championship points events; placed on NASCAR probation until Dec. 31;

·         Car owner Roger Penske: Loss of 25 championship owner points;

·         Driver Brad Keselowski: Loss of 25 championship driver points.



The original penalties assessed to the No. 22 team were:



·         Crew chief (Todd Gordon): $100,000 fine; suspended from NASCAR until the completion of the next six NASCAR Sprint Cup Series championship points events; placed on NASCAR probation until Dec. 31;

·         Car chief Raymond Fox and team engineer Samuel Stanley: Suspended from NASCAR until the completion of the next six NASCAR Sprint Cup Series championship points events; placed on NASCAR probation until Dec. 31;

·         Car owner Walt Czarnecki: Loss of 25 championship owner points;

·         Driver Joey Logano: Loss of 25 championship driver points.


The Appellants appealed all penalties listed above. The Appellants also requested and were granted a deferral of the suspensions until such time as the hearing could be convened.

Upon hearing the testimony and carefully reviewing the facts, it was a unanimous decision by the National Stock Car Racing Appeals Panel to uphold the original penalties assessed by NASCAR.

The Appellants have the right under Section 15 of the rule book to appeal this decision to the National Stock Car Racing Chief Appellate Officer.

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Of Engine Parts, Heavy Fines and Waiting For Kyle To Exhale

Yes... it had been a bit since I had started posting again this week.  After the Denny Hamlin affair where he was fined for a benign comment comparing the gen-6 to the COT car learning curve, I had lost a bit of mojo for the sport.

It seemed over-reactive. Sure, NASCAR wants to distance itself from the COT era, but that will happen with time, not with penalties that bring it more to light. And if Denny Hamlin never again gives a colorful answer to any question, I don't blame him.

Me and 90% of the fan base say shame on you NASCAR.  Now just let it be and back off.  You don't have to draw that line in the sand just because you started something you don't want to back off from.

Over the last few weeks I sat back and just watched some great racing.

I saw a race on a racetrack with some personality in the NASCAR Truck series (Rockingham) that was fun to watch.  And Kansas surprised me this year too.

But this week the news is pretty big, especially in the fine department.

Matt Kenseth's team got nailed pretty hard for having an engine component (connecting rod) that was just over 2 grams too light from its allowable 525 gram minimum weight.  And after winning a race to boot.

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The fines/penalties were

• Crew chief Jason Ratcliff has been fined $200,000 and suspended from NASCAR until the completion of the next six NASCAR Sprint Cup Series championship points events
• Car owner Joe Gibbs has lost 50 championship car owner points (The Kansas win will not have bonus points attached)
• Owner's license for the No. 20 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series car suspended until the completion of the next six championship points events (No owners points to be earned)
• Matt Kenseth lost 50 championship driver points
• The loss of five NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Manufacturer Championship points.

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The message is clear, even if the NASCAR world was already fully aware, to not mess with the engine.  (Or tires or the fuel.)

This brings up the issue of having wins removed from illegal cars.  I'm all in favor of such, when the situation warrants it.  Other wise, the car/driver/team still benefit from an ill-begotten win.

That's not fair to the rest of the field.  But that's just me and we know what NASCAR's practice is on the issue, so this is a moot opinion.

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Toyota has taken full blame for the Kenseth penalty.  And we can all talk till we're blue in the face about this issue, but the bottom line was that they were caught with ONE connecting rod that was too light, and it did not create any kind of advantage, that anyone knows of.  But the fine is there, to let the world know that messing with the engine is not a pretty thing to do.

Some have said that they feel it was an honest mistake while others have questioned why a light component was even in the garage area to begin with.

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What a season, with major players taking hits this early in the race season.  Denny Hamlin is out with back issues, Matt Kenseth and team will be in a huge deficit of a points hole, and other fun.  It's been a wild and whacky season indeed.

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So!  My past observations have been that Kurt Busch tends to blow up on average, about once every 14 to 18 months.  If this tendency holds true, I'm wondering when the next Kyle Busch blow up is coming?

Last week at Kansas, after he exited the race early, he was doing that walk.  You know the one.  He's totally pissed, but the small, mature corner of his brain is screaming:  "Just walk boyo!  Keep your mouth shut and walk!"  And he did, only stopping for the major media folks to answer a question or two, with the obvious and patented short answers that Kyle tends to give...  pragmatic, to the point, and almost spilling over into nasty time.

So good job Kyle, on last weekend.

But did that push him to being just a little bit closer to that inner boiling point we all know he has?  And being at Richmond just isn't going to help.  This is an emotional track!

I'm hoping he retains his composure.  But we'll see.

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Speaking of Richmond, remember the joke... ESPN coverage of the Nationwide race at Richmond will be on ESPNEWS channel, if you get that channel.

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That's all that's on my mind (that's printable) folks.  Chat with you later!

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NASCAR-Bits-and-Pieces on Twitter & Facebook & G+.

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NASCAR Issues Penalties From Sunday to Gordon, Pattie and Keselowksi???

After all was said and done, by the end of the Advocare 500 at Phoenix, I was surprised at the few number of penalties that came out of that melee known as the Advocare 500.  I get Jeff Gordon's penalty.  I get Brian Pattie's penalty...  (I heard him say s*! on TV, so this was a no brainer!)

To some lesser degree, I get Brad Keselowski's cell phone penalty.  BUT that cell phone brought a huge amount of attention to the sport back in February at Daytona.  That phone was a cash cow for the sport as the headline that went around the world about a NASCAR driver tweeting an on-track image and gaining thousands of fans from it.

Missing from this list of penalties is what many fans are crying for, and that's for Jeff Gordon to be parked for next week.  But as one argument would have it... when Kyle Busch was parked, it took repeated incidents or a pattern, that got him the sit-down.  Jeff Gordon does not have that pattern.

Below is the summary list of penalties

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via press release

NASCAR Issues Penalties From Sunday's Event

At Phoenix International Raceway

Three Teams Assessed Penalties Following Post-Race Review From NASCAR

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (Nov. 12, 2012) – NASCAR announced today penalties to three teams that compete in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series, as a result of rule infractions at Phoenix International Raceway.

Jeff Gordon, driver of the No. 24 car:

Was found to be in violation of Sections 12-1 (actions detrimental to stock car racing*) – altercation with another competitor on the race track during the race – and has been

• fined $100,000,
• docked 25 championship driver points and
  
• put on NASCAR probation until Dec. 31.

*But were his actions detrimental?  It sparked a news rage that has NASCAR on every channel!

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Rick Hendrick,

Owner of the No. 24 car, has also been

• penalized with the loss of 25 championship owner points.

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Alan Gustafson,

Crew chief of the No. 24 car, also was found to be in violation of Section 9-4A (at all events, crew chief assumes responsibility of his driver, car owner and team members) and

• has been placed on NASCAR probation until Dec. 31.

*As an added penalty, NASCAR should force him to crew chief for one of the Cope twins in their next race... no matter where it is!

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Brian Pattie,

crew chief of the No. 15 car, violated Sections 12-1 and 9-4A and has been

• fined $25,000 and
• placed on NASCAR probation until Dec. 31.

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Brad Keselowski,

Driver of the No. 2 car, has

• been fined $25,000 and
  
• placed on probation until Dec. 31

for violating Sections 12-1 and 20-6.7A (cars and drivers will not be permitted to carry onboard computers, automated electronic recording devices, electronically actuated devices, power distribution modules, power conditioners, micro-processors, recording devices, electronic digital memory chips, traction control devices, digital readout gauges and the like, even if inoperable or incomplete) – driver had a cell phone in his possession on board the race car.

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All of these violations occurred during the Nov. 11 event at PIR.

(Ya think!!!)

Additionally,

Statement From Robin Pemberton, NASCAR Vice President of Competition:

 

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (Nov. 12, 2012) – “Following a thorough analysis of the actions that took place during Sunday’s race at Phoenix International Raceway, we have issued penalties based upon our review. The decisions announced today cover NASCAR’s full assessment of penalties for the incidents that occurred.

 

“There’s no doubt that a unique set of circumstances combined with a championship battle on the line resulted in raw emotions coming into play. We consider the penalties appropriate and those involved understand our decision and we expect them to abide by them.”

   

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No. 27 Car Sprint Cup Series Penalties Upheld By Chief Appellate

via press release

National Stock Car Racing Chief Appellate Officer Statement

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (Sept. 14, 2012) – On Sept. 14, 2012, National Stock Car Racing Chief Appellate Officer John Middlebrook heard and considered the appeal of the six-week suspension penalty of crew member Grant Hutchens, team engineer for the Richard Childress Racing No. 27 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series team.

Upon hearing the testimony of both parties and carefully reviewing the facts, it was the Chief Appellate Officer's decision to uphold the original penalty assessed by NASCAR. Therefore, Hutchens' suspension from NASCAR is effective immediately until Oct. 25 and his NASCAR probation will continue until Dec. 31.

The penalties concern Section 12-1: Actions detrimental to stock car racing; Section 12-4K: If, in the judgment of NASCAR Officials, race equipment that has been previously certified or previously approved by NASCAR for use in an event, pursuant to sub-section 8-12, has been altered, modified, repaired or changed in any matter. Intentionally modifying previously certified frame rails for the purpose of deceiving NASCAR's inspection gauges.

The penalties stemmed from a failed post-race inspection at the NASCAR Research and Development Center on Aug. 21 following the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series event at Michigan International Speedway on Aug. 19.

The original penalties assessed were:

·         Car owner (Richard Childress): Loss of 25 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series championship car owner points;

·         Car driver (Paul Menard): Loss of 25 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series championship driver points;

·         Crew chief (Richard Labbe): $100,000 fine; suspended from NASCAR for six weeks; placed on NASCAR probation until Dec. 31;

·         Car chief (Craig Smokstad): Suspended from NASCAR for six weeks; placed on NASCAR probation until Dec. 31;

·         Crew member (Grant Hutchens): Suspended from NASCAR for six weeks; placed on NASCAR probation until Dec. 31.

On Sept. 10, the Appellant appealed the six-week suspensions of Smokstad and Hutchens to the National Stock Car Racing Appeals Panel. The Appellant did not appeal the loss of 25 championship car owner and 25 championship driver points or the $100,000 fine and six-week suspension of crew chief Richard Labbe, who began serving his suspension from NASCAR Sept. 4. It was the unanimous decision of the Panel to uphold both of their suspensions. The Appellant then appealed the suspension of Hutchens to the Chief Appellate Officer.

NASCAR Appeals Panel Statement on the No. 27 RCR Car (No Overtuned Penalties)

In regards to the No. 27 RCR Chevy and their appeal of the infractions found after the Michigan race, in short: All findings upheld.

via press release

National Stock Car Racing Appeals Panel Statement

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (Sept. 10, 2012) – The National Stock Car Racing Appeals Panel today heard and considered the appeal of the No. 27 Richard Childress NASCAR Sprint Cup Series team.

The penalties concern Section 12-1: Actions detrimental to stock car racing; Section 12-4K: If, in the judgment of NASCAR Officials, race equipment that has been previously certified or previously approved by NASCAR for use in an event, pursuant to sub-section 8-12, has been altered, modified, repaired or changed in any matter. Intentionally modifying previously certified frame rails for the purpose of deceiving NASCAR's inspection gauges.

The penalties stemmed from a post-race inspection at the NASCAR Research and Development Center on Aug. 21 following the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series event at Michigan International Speedway on Aug. 19.

The original penalties assessed were:

·         Car owner (Richard Childress): Loss of 25 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series championship car owner points;

·         Car driver (Paul Menard): Loss of 25 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series championship driver points;

·         Crew chief (Richard Labbe): $100,000 fine; suspended from NASCAR for six weeks; placed on NASCAR probation until Dec. 31;

·         Car chief (Craig Smokstad): Suspended from NASCAR for six weeks; placed on NASCAR probation until Dec. 31;

·         Crew member (Grant Hutchens): Suspended from NASCAR for six weeks; placed on NASCAR probation until Dec. 31.

The Appellant did not appeal the loss of 25 championship car owner and 25 championship driver points or the $100,000 fine and six-week suspension of crew chief Richard Labbe, who began serving his suspension from NASCAR Sept. 4. The Appellant did appeal the six-week suspensions of Craig Smokstad and Grant Hutchens.

The Appellant acknowledged that the No. 27 car failed post-race inspection.

Upon hearing the testimony and carefully reviewing the facts, it was a unanimous decision by the National Stock Car Racing Appeals Panel to uphold the original penalties assessed by NASCAR. Therefore, both Smokstad and Hutchens' six-week suspensions from NASCAR will be effective immediately.

The Appellant has the right under Section 15 of the rule book to appeal this decision to the National Stock Car Racing Chief Appellate Officer.

Dale Pinilis

Robert Yates

Jack Housby

Jason Cohen – Appellate Administrator and non-voting member

Nationwide Team Penalized After Chicago

The No. 09 team had some inspection issues after the Chicago race and they're now paying the piper for those issues today!  Check out the press release, via NASCAR:

No. 09 NASCAR Nationwide Series Team Penalized For Infractions

At Chicagoland Speedway

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (July 24, 2012) – NASCAR has issued penalties to the No. 09 team in the NASCAR Nationwide Series, as a result of rules infractions found on July 22 during post-race inspection at Chicagoland Speedway.

Crew chief Scott Zipadelli has been fined $10,000 and placed on NASCAR probation until Sept. 5 for violating Sections 12-1 (actions detrimental to stock car racing); 12-4J (any determination by NASCAR officials that race equipment used in the event does not conform to NASCAR rules detailed in Section 20A of the rule book or has not been approved by NASCAR prior to the event); 20A-2.3A (improperly attached weight); and 20A-2.4B (car failed to meet minimum weight requirements in post-race inspection). Car chief Travis Young has been placed on NASCAR probation until Sept. 5 for the same infractions.

Driver Kenny Wallace and owner Robby Benton have been penalized with the loss of six championship driver and six championship owner points for violating Sections 12-1; 12-4J; and 20A-2.4B.

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Stewart's Daytona Penalty, Dillon's 2nd Oops and B Samples

Tony Stewart's Penalty
I don't know about you but I was surprised to hear about Tony Stewart's car not passing post-race inspection after he won the Daytona race last weekend.

"The No. 14 team in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series was found to be in violation of Sections 12-1 (actions detrimental to stock car racing); 12-4J (any determination by NASCAR officials that the race equipment used in the event does not conform to NASCAR rules detailed in Section 20 of the NASCAR Rule Book); and 20-2.1J (unapproved open vent hose inside of the car). The violation occurred during post-qualifying inspection July 6.

As a result, crew chief Steve Addington has been fined $25,000 and placed on NASCAR probation until Aug. 22. Car chief Jeff Meendering has been placed on NASCAR probation until Aug. 22. Driver Tony Stewart and owner Margaret Haas have been penalized with the loss of six championship driver and six championship owner points, respectively."

Ouch.

Later reports indicated that the competition director for Stewart's Stewart-Haas Racing team, Greg Zipadelli, indicated that this was not an intentional penalty (are any of them?) and came about in a hasty repair to a rear window.  Doing that

"...jostled a cooling hose that was behind the seat. We understand NASCAR's position and will abide by its decision."

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Austin Dillon Dinged Again
I'm sad for Austin Dillon, to see his first win marred by a race inspection failure, but then in the subsequent weekend (last weekend) at Daytona, they again failed another inspection.  This can get bad because team members were on probation from the first violation!

"The No. 3 team in the NASCAR Nationwide Series was found to be in violation of Sections 12-1; 12-4J and 20A-2.1J (unapproved open vent hose inside of the car). This violation occurred during post-qualifying inspection on July 6.

Crew chief Danny Stockman has been fined $10,000 and due to the violation of his probation, has been suspended from NASCAR until July 25. Car chief Robert Strmiska has also been suspended from NASCAR competition until July 25 due to the violation of his probation. This past May 1, both Stockman and Strmiska were placed on NASCAR probation until Dec. 31, for rules violations committed at Richmond International Raceway.

Driver Austin Dillon and owner Morgan Shepherd have been penalized with the loss of six championship driver and six championship owner points, respectively."

Austin is going to have a tough go at it, recovering from this, unless he has his own Stewart-streak in upcoming races!
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AJ Allmendinger B Sample
Fans are shocked as is AJ Allmendinger and his team from his failed drug test.  But following NASCAR protocol, AJ was allowed to submit a second part of his first sample, called the B sample, for subsequent testing.

The B sample results could get AJ out from under this hot water, or could cement the over-shadowing doom of this cloud.

It's been said he's a very health conscious individual and all parties concerned are surprised.

Fans out there are concerned that there could be a situation where the tests are pulling up false positives for drugs that are not illicit drugs.  AKA, back in the day, some poor folks started discovering that mouth wash had just enough alcohol in it to help a driver fail a sobriety test!  So fans are focused on that aspect of the situation.

Everyone is holding their breath, awaiting news.  AJ Allmendinger's fans are standing by their man, as is his team.   Though they've entered Sam Hornish Jr as the driver for New Hampshire... just in case things go poorly in the testing realm.
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RAB Suspended John Wes Townley, Now NASCAR Has Him on Probation

Talk about double trouble...  after the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series driver, John Wes Townley, had an accident in his 2012 BMW, he was later charged with a DUI.  They found him knocking on doors, staggering about the neighborhood where he wrecked his car.  (Seriously, a new BMW???)

[Ignoring Townley's 2010 underage alcohol possession issue, (Really, I'm trying)]

RAB Racing subsequently suspended Townley indefinitely.

[sbnation: townley dui]

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Now it's being reported that NASCAR has just put Townley on probation for the remainder of the year, due to actions detrimental to stock car racing, which violates Section 12-1 of the NASCAR rulebook.  I'm assuming this is related.

Plus...

"Townley will be evaluated by a certified substance abuse professional at NASCAR's discretion and will be subject to random alcohol and drug testing"

So much for that comeback from being let go from RCR.  I hope this isn't a systemic issue... but patterns are patterns.

[NASCAR]

Jimmie Johnson is Not In A Bad Points Hole Yet & Why I Think That

Right now, after Phoenix, and barring the penalty not being appealed, Jimmie Johnson is 71 points out of first in 37th place in the driver's points standings of the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series.  But this early in the season, there's enough volatility in the standings that just maybe, there's nothing for the No. 48 Hendrick Motorsports team to worry about.

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I know that numerically, Jimmie's spot in the standings looks a bit dire, but the new points system can actually help him in the early weeks of the 2012 season.

In the old points system we had various point gaps between positions that made climbing up through the ranks a bit tough.  But with the new points system in place, where only 1 point separates various finishing positions, the early weeks of the season could favor a strong showing for Jimmie Johnson.

Here's the thing... 

The point spreads right now aren't huge or insurmountable.  In this early part of the season while teams are feeling out their position in the season, there will be wins and 15th place finishes.  All leading to a variability in the points for the teams.

For instance, though Johnson is 71 points behind points leader Denny Hamlin, a win by the former and a 10th place finish by the latter would pull Johnson to within 57 points of Hamlin.  (This scenario assumes certain things to happen, and is the best case scenario for Johnson.)

If this happened a few times, things would be good.  Obviously things don't work that easy, but right now, during these first few weeks of the season, Johnson can work the system while there's still some variability to be had in the points.  It won't be too easy after the 4th or 5th week, but by then, Johnson has either regained his penalty points or not, and is in a position to work at his game.

The important part about the early weeks of the season is that positions will jump around at first.  Look at this week after Phoenix.  Kyle Busch climbed 8 spots into 9th and Brad Keselowski jumped 17 spots into 12th.  Martin Truex Jr. clawed up 6 spots into 6th and the points leaders all swapped spots of 3 or 4 positions.

Right now there's volatility in the points standings that Jimmie Johnson has to take advantage of.  At least if he wants to competitive early on and continuing into the latter-half of the 2012 NASCAR Sprint Cup season.

But that's just my take.  Do you have any thoughts on the issue?


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NASCAR-Bits-and-Pieces.com , on Twitter & Facebook .
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NASCAR Deals Out Penalties to Jimmie Johnson's No. 48 Team

6-week Suspensions!  After failing a template inspection during opening day for the Daytona 500, (Feb. 17, 2012), NASCAR has distributed penalties in regards to the infraction.

The Infraction:

The No. 48 car was found to be in violation of Sections 12-1 (actions detrimental to stock car racing); 12-4J (any determination by NASCAR officials that race equipment used in the event does not conform to NASCAR rules detailed in Section 20 of the rule book or has not been approved by NASCAR prior to the event); and 20-2.1E (if in the judgment of NASCAR officials, any part or component of the car not previously approved by NASCAR that has been installed or modified to enhance aerodynamic performance will not be permitted – unapproved car body modifications).

Bruce's note: This involved a part of the car body back by the C-Post, which did not conform to template measurements.
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The Penalties

Suspensions

Crew chief Chad Knaus and car chief Ron Malec have been suspended from the next six (6) NASCAR Sprint Cup Series championship events, suspended from NASCAR until April 18 and placed on NASCAR probation until May 9. Additionally, Knaus has been fined $100,000.

Points Loss

Driver Jimmie Johnson and car owner Jeff Gordon have been penalized with the loss of 25 driver and 25 owner points, respectively.

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Jimmie Johnson came out of Daytona with 2 points in the driver standings... as did the car owner!  Hence, a 25-point penalty puts the tally at -23 points!  Jimmie definitely has a hole to climb out of, but he's done it before.  In fact, it seems his team performs best when they are forced to work hard at it.

The penalties come as no surprise but as far as I'm concerned, bodes well for Jimmie Johnson!

The years that he's had to do without Chad Knaus or had a bad time in the Daytona 500 have been very good years for the No. 48 Lowes team.

So look out guys!
-Bruce