NASCAR announced today that the #23 Toyota team in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series has been penalized for rule violations committed last week during a test session at Lowe’s Motor Speedway. Three penalties have been assessed to the #23 Toyota team for violating Sections 12-4-A (actions detrimental to stock car racing) and 12-4-J (permitting a non-NASCAR licensed driver to drive the #23 truck) of the 2007 NASCAR Rule Book. Crew chief Trip Bruce has been fined $10,000 and suspended from the next two NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series championship events until May 30, 2007. Driver Johnny Benson has been penalized with the loss of 50 championship driver points. Truck owner Gail Davis has been penalized with the loss of 50 championship owner points.(NASCAR PR)(5-15-2007)
UPDATE: Bill Davis Racing has released the following statement in regards to the penalties for their #23 Craftsman Truck Series team driven by Johnny Benson. “We agree with the penalties NASCAR has issued to the 23 team and we will deal with them accordingly,” said Bill Davis. “NASCAR has rules and policies in place to keep the drivers and crew members safe and we appreciate their vigilance in this instance.” In Trip Bruce’s absence, truck chief Billy Hagerthey will assume the role of crew chief.(BDR PR)(5-15-2007)
