UPDATE: NASCAR will require Hailie Deegan to take sensitivity training prior to the start of the 2021 season.
— NASCAR —
ORIGINAL POST: NASCAR driver Hailie Deegan was recorded saying the R-word Sunday evening during an iRacing session.
“This is fun,” Deegan said. Then after apparent contact from another driver she added, “Oh, ay, who’s the (R-word) behind me? Don’t do that please.”
Deegan posted an apology via Twitter on Sunday night.
Earlier tonight I used an insensitive word during an online race being broadcast on twitch. It was inappropriate slang and a stupid thing to do. I apologize to everyone who was offended by it. There's no excuse for it, and I know I have to do better for my sponsors and my fans.
— Hailie Deegan (@HailieDeegan) January 11, 2021
AND:
NASCAR could opt to fine/penalize Deegan for use of an offensive word for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. NASCAR has not penalized for the "r-word" in the past — the last instance that I can remember was eight years ago. https://t.co/zJQuGfYEHT
— Bob Pockrass (@bobpockrass) January 11, 2021