As 2013 arrives, the sins of the past year are cast away for many in NASCAR. For those who acquired penalties, they often include ‘probation until Dec. 31.” No matter the infraction discovered in pre-race inspection, post-race examination or some other time during a race weekend, all is forgiven, but certainly not forgotten, by series officials on Dec. 31. In the new year, defending Sprint Cup champion #2-Brad Keselowski is forgiven for his frisky phone at Daytona, #24-Jeff Gordon is absolved for his actions at Phoenix (at least by NASCAR, not so much by #15-Clint Bowyer) and #78-Kurt Busch, among others, is free to pursue his quest for victory without the threat of additional sanctions. Admittedly, the phrase ‘NASCAR probation” has been used as a punch line by many in the sport through the years. While the ambiguity of what happens next if someone on NASCAR probation violates the rule is maddening to fans, NASCAR has shown, at times, probation can add to a penalty.( Sports Illustrated )
