2005 NASCAR Penalties - Jayski's NASCAR Silly Season Site

NEXTEL CUP PENALTIES 2005

Berrier’s penalty upheld: On October 19, 2005, the National Stock Car Racing Commission [Brad Daugherty, Richard Gore, and George Silbermann, Chairman] heard and considered the appeal of Todd Berrier, crew chief for the #29 car. The appeal pertained to a penalty issued by NASCAR under Section 12-4-A of the Rule Book “Actions detrimental to stock car racing” and Section 12-4-Q “Any determination by NASCAR Officials that the car, car parts, components and/or equipment used in the Event do not conform to NASCAR rules: Unapproved aerodynamic modifications and unapproved fuel cell vent mounting.” The penalty stemmed from post-qualifying inspection at Talladega Superspeedway for the NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series event on September 30, 2005.
The penalty assessed was:
* $10,000 fine; suspension from NASCAR until October 19, 2005; probation until December 31, 2005.
* Upon the request of the Appellant, the Commission deferred the original penalty until the hearing could be conducted.
Taken individually, each of the components that failed to conform to the rules had plausible explanations, but taken collectively, constituted a serious violation of the rules. Therefore, it is the unanimous decision of the National Stock Car Racing Commission to uphold the original penalty issued by NASCAR. The period of the suspension will be adjusted to commence from the date of this
hearing. The Appellant has the right under Section 15 of the Rule Book to appeal this decision to the National Stock Car Racing Commissioner.(NASCAR)(10-19-2005)
Hearing set for RCR Appeal: Car owner Richard Childress said the team’s appeal of NASCAR penalties issued to crew chief Todd Berrier has been set for Oct. 19. NASCAR suspended Berrier, crew chief for Kevin Harvick, two races, fined him $10,000 and placed him on probation until Dec. 31. Officials found that Harvick’s car had an unapproved aerodynamic modification and fuel cell at Talladega.(Roanoke Times), while the penalty is being appealed, Berrier can serve as the #29 Crew Chief on Sunday at Kansas.(10-8-2005)
#37 Crew Chief Suspended by NASCAR: NASCAR has suspended crew chief Glenn Darrow indefinitely, for violation of the sanctioning body’s substance abuse policy. Darrow, [now former] crew chief for the #37 Dodge [Tony Raines driver] that competes in the NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series, was tested for banned substances last Saturday (Oct. 1) at Talladega (Ala.) Superspeedway. Test results were positive, violating Section 12-4-A (actions detrimental to stock car racing) and Section 12-4-E (violation of the NASCAR Substance Abuse Policy) of the 2005 NASCAR rule book.(NASCAR PR)(10-6-2005)
Richard Childress Statement Regarding NASCAR Penalty The following is a statement from Richard Childress, president and CEO of Richard Childress Racing (RCR), regarding NASCAR’s penalty to RCR crew chief Todd Berrier for a rules infraction Sept. 30 at Talladega (Ala.) Superspeedway: “After several discussions with the crew of the #29 team, we have decided to appeal NASCAR’s ruling. We feel we have a responsibility to GM Goodwrench and all of our sponsors, as well as all of our fans, to stand up for what we think is right. Regardless of the outcome, we can’t let it get in the way of what the #29 team is trying to accomplish this season. The goal is to finish 11th in the point standings. That’s where they are now and that will remain their focus.”(RCR)(10-5-2005)
Waltrip’s Penalty and Fine Rescinded: On October 4, 2005, the National Stock Car Racing Commission heard and considered the appeal of DEI and Michael Waltrip. The appeal pertained to two penalties issued by NASCAR under Section 12-4-A of the Rule Book “Actions detrimental to stock car racing. Inappropriate gesture by the driver during a televised broadcast”. The penalties stemmed from the broadcast of a NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series event at New Hampshire International Speedway on September 18, 2005.
The penalties assessed were:
* $10,000 fine; loss of 25 NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Driver Championship points; and Probation until December 31, 2005 for driver, Michael
Waltrip
* Loss of 25 NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series Car Owner Championship points for owner, Teresa Earnhardt
The Commission reviewed the broadcast footage numerous times and different Commission members saw different things. Two of the three members found the footage inconclusive. Therefore, by majority vote, the National Stock Car Racing Commission has decided to rescind the penalties. Notwithstanding the outcome of this specific Appeal, the Commission concurs with NASCAR’s strong stance regarding inappropriate gestures and/or language during NASCAR broadcasts, and the need for vigorous penalties for any infractions.(NASCAR PR)(10-5-2005)
#29 Crew Chief Berrier Suspended: NASCAR announced today that NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series crew chief Todd Berrier has been suspended, fined and placed on probation because of rule violations this past weekend at Talladega Superspeedway. Berrier, crew chief of the #29 Chevrolet driven by Kevin Harvick, was suspended from NASCAR competition until Oct. 19, fined $10,000 and placed on probation until Dec. 31. During post-qualifying inspection last Friday, the #29 was found to have an unapproved aerodynamic modification and an unapproved fuel cell vent mounting – violations of Section 12-4-A (actions detrimental to stock car racing) and 12-4-Q (car, car parts, components, and/or equipment that do not conform to NASCAR rules) in the series rule book.(NASCAR PR)(10-4-2005)
Other Fines from Talladega:
Tony Gibson, crew chief of the #15 Chevrolet driven by Michael Waltrip, was fined $10,000. During pre-qualifying inspection last Friday, the #15 was found to have an unapproved air directional device and unapproved wheel spacers – violations of Sections 12-4-A and 12-4-Q.
Tony Eury Jr., crew chief of the #8 Chevrolet driven by Dale Earnhardt Jr., was fined $2,500. During opening day inspection last Thursday, the #8 was found to have unapproved fuel cell foam, violating 12-4-A and 12-4-Q.
Dustin Smith, crew chief of the #89 Dodge driven by Morgan Shepherd, was fined $2,500. During opening-day inspection, the #89 also had unapproved fuel cell foam.(NASCAR PR)(10-4-2005)
#78 Crew Chief Fined: NASCAR announced today that Joe Garone, crew chief for the No. 78 Chevrolet driven by Kenny Wallace in the NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series, has been fined $1,000 for an infraction during last weekend’s event at Dover International Speedway. Garone was fined for an unapproved fuel cell recessed well, a violation of Section 12-4-A (actions detrimental to stock car racing) and Section 12-4-U (unapproved fuel cell container) of the NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series rule book. There were false panels inside the recessed well.(NASCAR PR)(9-27-2005)
DEI to appeal Waltrip penalty: Dale Earnhardt, Inc.(DEI) is going to appeal the points and monetary fine placed against the #15 NAPA Parts Chevrolet from last week’s race at New Hampshire International Speedway. Waltrip, driver of the #15 NAPA Chevrolet, was fined 25 driver points and $10,000 for allegedly using an “inappropriate gesture during a televised broadcast.” Teresa Earnhardt, CEO and President of Dale Earnhardt, Inc, was also fined 25 owner points. “In looking at the tape, we don’t see anywhere during the entire
incident where Michael did what he is accused of doing,” said Richie Gilmore, Vice President of Motorsports for DEI.(DEI PR)(9-22-2005)
Fines, Penalties and Probations Result from New Hampshire Infractions
NASCAR issued fines and penalties Monday to four NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series teams, resulting from rule violations this past weekend at New Hampshire International Speedway.
• Kasey Kahne, driver of the #9 Dodge, was fined $25,000 because of an on-track altercation with another competitor during a caution period and placed on probation for the remainder of the year. Kahne violated Section 12-4-A of the series rule book (actions detrimental to stock car racing). Kahne was also penalized 25 driver championship points and car owner Ray Evernham losing 25 owner championship points. “There have been a growing number of incidents lately where drivers have taken matters into their own hands. Such unsafe and inappropriate behavior has to stop,” said NASCAR President Mike Helton. NASCAR will use whatever means necessary to stop it.”
Other fines and penalties issued Monday:
• Lance McGrew, crew chief for the #25 Chevrolet driven by Brian Vickers, was fined $10,000 and placed on probation for the remainder of the year. The #25 team had its primary car confiscated after the weekend’s initial inspection process, due to an unapproved car body. Vickers was penalized 25 driver points and car owner Mary Hendrick was penalized 25 owner points. The team was in violation of Section 12-4-A and Section 12-4-Q (car, car parts, components and/or equipment that do not conform to NASCAR rules).
• Robby Gordon, driver of the #7 Chevrolet, was fined $25,000 for attempting to hit another competitor’s car during a caution period, and then throwing his helmet at another competitor’s car. Gordon also was fined $10,000 for use of improper language during a television interview during the race. Each fine was accompanied by penalties against Gordon of 25 driver points and 25 owner points against James Smith. In addition, Gordon has been placed on probation for the remainder of the year. In each instance, Gordon was in violation of Section 12-4-A. So Gordon loses 50 drivers points and 50 owners points.
• #15 Chevrolet driver Michael Waltrip, involved in the on-track altercations with Gordon, was fined $10,000 and penalized 25 driver points because of an inappropriate gesture during a televised broadcast, while car owner Teresa Earnhardt was penalized 25 owner points. Waltrip was also in violation of Secton 12-4-A.(NASCAR PR)(9-19-2005)
updated points on Jayski’s Drivers/Owners Points after New Hampshire page.(9-19-2005)
#49 Team/Driver docked points and fined UPDATE 2 appeal denied: NASCAR announced today that three penalties have been issued to the #49 Dodge team in the NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series as a result of rules infractions last weekend at Michigan. The penalties were issued because of a roof height that was too low, a violation of Section 12-4-A (Actions detrimental to stock car racing), and Section 12-4-Q (car, parts, components and/or equipment used in the Event do not conform to NASCAR rules) of the NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series rule book. This infraction was discovered during post-race inspection. Ken Schrader, driver of the #49, was penalized with the loss of 25 NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series driver championship points. Car owner Beth Ann Morgenthau was penalized with the loss of 25 NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series owner championship points. Crew chief David Hyder was fined $25,000 and placed on probation until Dec. 31.(NASCAR)(8-24-2005)
UPDATE: #49 BAM Racing is appealing its penalty from last week’s race at Michigan. NASCAR fined the team points and money for failing the minimum height requirement. The team blames a broken shock absorber.(Daily Record)(8-27-2005)
UPDATE 2 – Denied: The National Stock Car Racing Commission denied the appeal from #49 BAM Racing. Ken Schrader and the team were penalized 25 points each and crew chief Larry Hyder was fined $25,000 after the car failed the minimum height requirement at Michigan last month.(Roanoke Times)(9-10-2005)
Kyle Busch Fined, Placed on Probation for Watkins Glen Infraction: NASCAR announced today that Kyle Busch, driver of the #5 Chevy in the NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series, has been fined $10,000 and placed on probation until Dec. 31 for an infraction last week at Watkins Glen International. Busch was fined for hitting another competitor’s car [#37 Lazzaro] after the completion of the race, a violation of Section 12-4-A (actions detrimental to stock car racing) of the NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series rule book.(NASCAR PR)(8-17-2005)
Two Crew Chiefs Fined for Pocono Infractions: NASCAR announced today that two penalties have been issued to NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series competitors as a result of rules infractions this past weekend at Pocono Raceway.
Kenneth Glen, crew chief of the #52 Dodge driven by Derrike Cope, was fined $5,000 for an unapproved rear end gear ratio, a violation of Section 12-4-A (actions detrimental to stock car racing), and Section 12-4-CC (violation of specified rear end gear ratio) of the NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series rule book. This infraction was discovered during pre-qualifying inspection.
Shane Wilson, crew chief for the #77 Dodge driven by Travis Kvapil, was fined $1,000 for an unapproved body modification, a violation of Section 12-4-A (actions detrimental to stock car racing), and Section 12-4-Q (parts and/or equipment used in the Event do not conform to NASCAR Rules) of the NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series rule book. This infraction was discovered during pre-qualifying inspection.(NASCAR PR)(7-26-2005)
#32 Crew Chief fined for New Hampshire Infraction: NASCAR announced today that Danny Gill, crew chief for the #32 Chevrolet driven by Bobby Hamilton Jr., in the NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series, has been fined $1,000 for an infraction discovered during opening day inspection at New Hampshire International Speedway last weekend. Gill was fined for a seat belt with an expired manufacturer’s date, a violation of Section 12-4-1 (Actions detrimental to stock car racing) and Section 17-2-C (seat belts) of the NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series rule book.(NASCAR PR)(7-20-2005)
Crew Chief Fined for Chicagoland Infraction: NASCAR announced today that David [not Larry] Hyder, crew chief for the #49 Dodge driven by Ken Schrader in the NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series, has been fined $1,000 for an infraction last weekend at Chicagoland Speedway. Hyder was fined for unapproved body modifications after inspection, a violation of Section 12-4-1 (Actions detrimental to stock car racing) and Section 12-4-Q (car, car parts, components and/or equipment used in the event do not conform to NASCAR Rules) of the NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series rulebook.(NASCAR PR)(7-13-2005)
Penalties announced from Daytona: NASCAR announced Monday that fines have been issued to five NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series crew chiefs resulting from rule violations leading up to the July 2 Pepsi 400 at Daytona International Speedway.
Joel Shear, crew chief of the #09 Dodge driven by Johnny Sauter and Dan Kolanda, crew chief for the #89 Dodge driven by Morgan Shepherd, were each fined $10,000 due to unapproved upper rear coil spring mounts, a violation of Sections 12-4-A (actions detrimental to stock car racing) and 12-4-Q (car, car parts, components and/or equipment that do not conform to NASCAR rules) of the NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series rule book. The infractions were found during opening day inspection June 30.
Shear was fined an additional $5,000 for violating NASCAR probation, a breach of Section 12-4-A.
Harold Holly, [former] crew chief of the #32 Chevrolet driven by Bobby Hamilton Jr., was also fined $10,000 when post-qualifying inspection revealed violations of Sections 12-4-A and 12-4-Q (unapproved lubrication oil reservoir tank cover).
Additionally, Glenn Darrow, crew chief for the #37 Dodge of Kevin Lepage, was fined $2,500 after being found in violation of 12-4-A and 12-4-Q (unapproved fuel cell foam) following opening-day inspection.
Also, Tony Eury Jr., crew chief of the #15 Chevrolet driven by Michael Waltrip, was fined $500 because he missed the pre-race driver’s meeting, a violation of 12-4-A and 12-4-I (failure to attend driver’s meeting).(NASCAR PR)(7-11-2005)
Four fined for infractions at Sonoma: NASCAR announced Tuesday that penalties have been issued to four NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series crew chiefs resulting from rule violations during opening day inspection at Infineon Raceway on June 24.
Doug Richert, crew chief of the #16 Ford driven by Greg Biffle, was fined twice for violating Sections 12-4-A (actions detrimental to stock car racing) and 20-17.2 (unapproved seat belt) of the NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series rule book. He was fined $1,000 for an expired manufacturer’s date on the lap belt and another $1,000 for an expired manufacturer’s date on the shoulder harness.
Philippe Lopez, crew chief of the #07 Chevrolet driven by Dave Blaney, was fined $1,000 for violating Sections 12-4-A and 12-4-Q (car, car parts, components and/or equipment used that do not conform to NASCAR rules) for an unapproved steering wheel.
Rodney Childers, crew chief of the #10 Chevrolet driven by Scott Riggs, and Pat Tryson, crew chief of the #6 Ford driven by Mark Martin, were each fined $1,000 for violating Sections 12-4-A and 12-4-Q for unapproved fire suppression agents.(NASCAR PR)(6-28-2005)
#9 Front End Seized, Penalty on the way UPDATE 2: Speed Channel’s Bob Dilner reported on Speed News NASCAR Edition that the #9-Kasey Kahne car had the front end confiscated by NASCAR for supposedly having an illegal spring loaded valance. Expect to hear some news on fines/penalties/points deduction by NASCAR, usually penalties are announced on Tuesdays.(6-20-2005)
UPDATE: NASCAR officials have confirmed the confiscation of an adjustable – and thus illegal – front air dam from Kasey Kahne’s #9 Dodge team during the Batman Begins 400 at Michigan International Speedway race weekend. According to NASCAR vice president for corporate communications Jim Hunter, the illegal part was found during a pre-race inspection on Friday and never made it to the racetrack aboard the team Evernham entry. Still, the team is set to receive some kind of punishment for possession of a device deliberately designed to breach the rules. “A penalty will be forthcoming — I don’t know what,” Hunter told NASCAR’s official website. “The rulebook says it cannot be adjusted, so it did not conform to our rules.”(Speed Channel)(6-21-2005)
UPDATE 2 [well…not much of one] no word yet on any penalties/fines for this infraction, expected the word Tuesday as is usaully the case.(6-22-2005)
FINE ANNOUNCED: Tommy Baldwin, crew chief for the #9 Dodge driven by Kasey Kahne, was fined $10,000 for an unapproved front air dam extension, a violation of Section 12-4-1 (Actions detrimental to stock car racing) and Section 12-4-Q (parts and/or equipment that do not conform to NASCAR rules) of the NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series rulebook.(NASCAR PR)(6-22-2005)
Penalties announced: NASCAR announced today that two NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series crew chiefs have been fined for infractions during last weekend’s events at Michigan International Speedway. Both violations were found during pre-qualifying inspection. Tommy Baldwin, crew chief for the #9 Dodge driven by Kasey Kahne, was fined $10,000 for an unapproved front air dam extension, a violation of Section 12-4-1 (Actions detrimental to stock car racing) and Section 12-4-Q (parts and/or equipment that do not conform to NASCAR rules) of the NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series rulebook.
Jimmy Elledge, crew chief for the #41 Dodge driven by Casey Mears, was fined $1,000 for unapproved body modifications after inspection, a violation of Section 12-4-1 and Section 12-4-Q.(NASCAR PR)(6-22-2005)
Eleven Drivers Penalized UPDATE: Eleven drivers were penalized for being late for inspection at Darlignton Raceway last week. Ten teams/drivers will be held for 15 minutes before they can practice today at Richmond: #5-Busch, #7-Gordon, #8-Earnhardt Jr., #10-Riggs, #15-Waltrip, #17-Kenseth, # 41-Mears, #42-McMurray, #48-Johnson and #99-Edwards. #24-Gordon has to sit on pit road for 30 minutes. The drivers and cars need to sit on pit road, can’t go out to practice or work on the car.(Speed Channel’s Happy Hour practice coverage).(5-13-2005)
UPDATE: NASCAR held at least a dozen cars on pit lane before practice yesterday, penalizing the teams for being late to the prerace inspection line at Darlington Raceway last week. Jeff Gordon served the worst punishment, missing 26 minutes of practice. Jimmie Johnson, Scott Riggs, Carl Edwards, Michael Waltrip, Casey Mears, Matt Kenseth, Dale Earnhardt Jr., Jamie McMurray, Kyle Busch, Robby Gordon and Tony Stewart also were held and missed between 10-15 minutes of the session. “With all the weather that we had at Darlington, the schedule was shortened,” Jeff Gordon said. “With all the changes that we had to make in practice, we lost a lot of time and we paid the price big time for it. I understand what NASCAR’s doing. They need to keep the inspection line on time, but I think when you’ve got 11 or 12 cars, and top teams, that are late to the inspection line, there’s obviously a problem there beyond just the teams lagging behind.”(Richmond Times Dispatch)(5-14-2005)
Eleven Penalties Result from Talladega Infractions NASCAR announced today that 11 penalties have been issued to NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series competitors, as a result of rule infractions this past weekend at Talladega Superspeedway.
Three of those penalties were issued to the #00 Chevrolet team, because of an unapproved rear axle housing, a violation of Section 12-4-A (actions detrimental to stock car racing) and Section 12-4-Q (car, car parts, components and/or equipment that do not conform to NASCAR rules) of the NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series rule book. The violations were found during pre-qualifying inspection. Kenny Wallace, driver of the #00, was penalized with the loss of 25 driver championship points; car owner Elizabeth (Buffy) Waltrip was penalized 25 owner championship points; and crew chief Terry Wooten was fined $25,000.
Harold Holly, crew chief for the #32 Chevrolet driven by Bobby Hamilton Jr., was fined $10,000. During opening day inspection, the #32 had unapproved upper rear coil spring mounts, violating Sections 12-4-A and 12-4-Q.
Jimmy Elledge, crew chief for the #41 Dodge driven by Casey Mears, was fined $2,500 because of unapproved use of refrigerant near the fuel system, violating 2-4-A and 12-4-Q. The violations were found during pre-qualifying inspection.
In addition, $1,000 fines were issued to the following six competitors:
Alan Gustafson, crew chief for the #5 Chevrolet driven by Kyle Busch, because of an unapproved right-side window (violating 12-4-A and 12-4-Q); Mike Ford, crew chief for the #88 Ford of Dale Jarrett, was fined for the same violations. In both cases, the violations were found during pre-qualifying inspection.
Four crew chiefs were fined because of unapproved window nets presented at opening day inspection (violating 12-4-A and 12-4-Q). Nets must have a minimum opening of one inch between the ribs. Those four:
Robert (Bootie) Barker, crew chief for the #0 Chevrolet driven by Mike Bliss; Dave Rogers, crew chief for the #11 Chevrolet driven by Jason Leffler; Bob Osborne, crew chief for the #99 Ford driven by Carl Edwards; and Richard (Slugger) Labbe, crew chief for the #19 Dodge driven by Jeremy Mayfield.(NASCAR PR)(5-4-2005)
#1 Busch Team Appeal, Rejected and Fine INCREASED: The National Stock Car Racing Commission has not only rejected the appeal of car owner James Finch for an illegal carburetor found during post-race inspection at Texas, they slapped on an additional $25,000 fine. NASCAR had disqualified the #1 Dodge from the Busch Series race costing the team 125-points for finishing 14th and $28,000 in prize money. Also, Crew Chief Joe Shear Jr. was suspended until May 18th.
Commenting on the decision, Finch told PRN’s Fast Talk with Benny Parsons radio show Monday night; “It’s pretty consistent with me. The last time I appealed one it was several years ago and it was a $5,000 fine and when it was over they made it 10.”
Finch’s main bone of contention is that NASCAR hands down the penalties AND hears appeals. “The racing is great, it always has been, I’m just saying that they need to give up part of the sport and let somebody else referee the rules. If they want to do this right, get an independent commission to make an independent hearing and make the ruling. It’s kind of like having a highway patrolman pull you over and tell you you’re speeding and you say…I don’t believe I am…and he says yes you are…and you say okay, I don’t believe you but I’m gonna sign the ticket. Then 30 minutes later you go to the courthouse and he’s the judge. In the rule books it’s all minimum fines…they don’t have any maximum fines. In the NFL it’s five yards off sides for everybody every time. In NASCAR it’s according to who you are. In baseball it’s three strikes you’re out…NASCAR it’s according to who’s swingin’…just let ‘em keep swingin’.”(PRN’s Fast Talk with Benny Parsons)(4-25-2005)
UPDATE – NASCAR’s Announcement: On April 25, 2005, the National Stock Car Racing Commission heard and considered the Appeal of James Finch, Johnny Sauter and Joel Shear concerning three penalties assessed by NASCAR relative to the #1 car following the NASCAR Busch Series event at Texas Motor Speedway on April 16, 2005. The infractions concerned Section 12-4-A of the NASCAR Rule Book “Actions detrimental to stock car racing” and Section 12-4-Q “Any determination by NASCAR Officials that the car, car parts, components, and/or equipment used in the Event do not conform to NASCAR rules: unapproved carburetor.”
The penalties assessed were:
• Disqualification for car owner James Finch.
• Disqualification for driver Johnny Sauer.
• Suspension from NASCAR until May 18, 2005, suspension from the next four (4) NASCAR Busch Series races, and probation until December 31, 2005 for crew chief Joel Shear.
The Appellants contented that the carburetor had been previously presented to and approved by NASCAR Officials. The Appellants also contested the severity of the penalty.
In considering the appeal, the Commission noted the following:
The modifications to the carburetor represented an unequivocal and substantial violation of the rules. The onus is on the entrant to present a car that is legal at all times. The onus is not on NASCAR to detect every rules violation at every inspection. Parts or equipment on the racecar are not deemed to have been authorized or approved by reason of having passed through inspection at any time or any number of times unobserved or undetected.
Given the blatant nature of the infraction, it is the unanimous decision of the National Stock Car Racing Commission to:
• Uphold the original penalty against driver Johnny Sauter.
• Uphold the original penalty against crew chief Joel Shear.
• Increase the penalty against car owner James Finch to: Disqualification and a $25,000.00 fine.
The Appellants have the right under Section 15 of the Rule Book to appeal this decision to the National Stock Car Racing Commissioner.(NASCAR PR)(4-26-2005)
Penalty coming? #1 UPDATE #1 and Sauter DQ’d, To APPEAL: Johnny Sauter’s #1 James Finch owned Dodge team finished 14th in Saturday’s O’Reilly 300 but may face penalties in the following days. Picked as the random car for post race inspection, Sauter’s Dodge caught the eyes of NASCAR officials. What the problem is exactly, is unclear at this time. “There are some issues with the #1 car that could result in a revision of the race results or could result in penalities for the #1 team. At this point the #1 car is still undergoing post race inspection,” said Busch Series Communications Manager Tracey Judd. The #1 car is being kept overnight for ongoing inspection. Vice President of Corporate Communications for NASCAR, Jim Hunter, will be on hand at the Texas Motor Speedway on Sunday to announce details of the infraction. The top three cars belonging to race winner Kasey Kahne, second place Greg Biffle and third place Reed Sorenson, all cleared the inspection process.(BGNRacing.com)(4-16-2005)
UPDATE – disqualified Sauter’s team has been hit with their first of what is expected to be a long string of penalties for having an illegal carburetor on the #1 Dodge. On Sunday the team’s 14th place finish was thrown out, along with their earned points and money. The rest of the finishers below the 14th position from Saturday’s race will jump a spot in the rundown. Other penalties varying from monetary to suspensions will be handed out later this week.(BGNRacing.com)(4-16-2005)
UPDATE 2 – Penalties: NASCAR announced Tuesday that Joe Shear Jr., crew chief of the #1 Dodge driven by Johnny Sauter in the NASCAR Busch Series, has been suspended until May 18 (the next four races beginning at Phoenix) and placed on probation until December 31, 2005 after rule violations Saturday at Texas Motor Speedway. Shear violated Sections 12-4-A (actions detrimental to stock car racing) and 12-4-Q (car, car parts, components and/or equipment used that do not conform to NASCAR rules) of the NASCAR Busch Series rule book due to an unapproved carburetor. The violations were determined following post-race inspection.(NASCAR PR)(4-19-2005)
UPDATE 3 to APPEAL: Moments after the penalty was handed down, Phoenix Racing owner James Finch told Claire B. Lang
live on XM Satellite NASCAR Radio that he would appeal: “We’re appealing the penalty as it came down for Joe. We’re also
going to appeal the suspension in the race because NASCAR has a procedure to inspect these cars. They charge $900 per car in the Busch Series, and $2425 in the Cup Series, so NASCAR took in around $163,000 this weekend to inspect these cars. We gave them the carburetor–the specific carburetor in question–and asked them “Check this carburetor; we want to see if we can run this carburetor this weekend.” They did that. They checked it, they put it on the car, they put a seal on it, we went out and qualified, they impounded the car on Thursday afternoon. Saturday afternoon–late–they pulled the car and says “This is going to be a random check.” And they tore the motor down and they took the carburetor apart and said it was illegal, and it’s too big. I think it’s NASCAR’s mistake, it’s not my mistake.”(Claire B. Lang – XM Satellite NASCAR Radio)(4-20-2005)
#66 Crew Chief Fined: NASCAR announced Wednesday that Greg Conner, crew chief for the #66 Peak Fitness Ford driven by Hermie Sadler, has been fined for rule violations during opening day inspection at Texas Motor Speedway on April 15. A fine of $5,000 resulted from violations of Sections 12-4-A (actions detrimental to stock car racing) and 12-4-Q (car, car parts, components and/or equipment used that do not conform to NASCAR rules) of the NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series rule book, due to an unapproved deck lid.(NASCAR PR)(4-20-2005)
Hmeil/Braun Racing Drop Appeal: Todd Braun, owner of Braun Racing, and Shane Hmiel, driver of the #32 WINFUEL Chevrolet, have decided not to appeal the penalties assessed by NASCAR for the incident that occurred during the Sharpie 250 at Bristol Motor Speedway on Monday, April 4. “Although we do not agree with the way that everything has been handled in regards to the incident that occurred; we do understand the direction that NASCAR is trying to move and what they are trying to accomplish,” Todd Braun said Monday afternoon. “We have decided not to appeal the penalties that were assessed, but to instead move forward in representing WINFUEL and the NASCAR Busch series. Braun Racing looks forward to putting this incident behind us and going to Phoenix to win the race.” NASCAR fined Shane Hmiel $10,000 and docked him 25 driver points for making an obscene gesture that appeared on live television via Hmiel’s in car camera. Owner Todd Braun was also docked 25 owner points for the incident. “I apologize for making the gesture,” Hmiel said today. “I never intended for it to end up on television. We have decided to drop the appeal and move forward with our pursuit of the Busch Series Championship.”(NASCAR PR)(4-20-2005)
Robby’s Crew Chief Fined: NASCAR announced Tuesday that Robert [Bob] Temple, crew chief for the #7 Chevrolet driven by Robby Gordon in the NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series, has been fined $5,000 for a rule violation that occurred last week at Martinsville Speedway in Martinsville, Va. During opening day inspection on April 8, the #7 was found to have an unapproved deck lid, a violation of Section 12-4-Q of the NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series rule book. That also violated Section 12-4-A (actions detrimental to stock car racing).(NASCAR PR)(4-12-2005)
#29 Appeal Heard; Decision ANNOUNCED: The appeal on behalf of Kevin Harvick’s crew chief Todd Berrier has been heard. Both NASCAR and the Richard Childress Racing team presented their arguments to the National Stock Car Racing Commission today. The panel hopes to decide by late Wednesday if the four-race penalty will stick for the chief of the 29 team. NASCAR suspended Berrier and issued a $25,000 following the race at Las Vegas after an illegal fuel cell was found after qualifying. Harvick lost 25 points as did car owner Richard Childress. Berrier sat out in Atlanta. No word yet about whether he’ll be back atop the pit box at Bristol. Last week, the commission did rescind the crew chief suspensions of two Hendrick Cup chiefs and replaced them with a 90-day suspension. But the fines and point penalties remained in tact.(FoxSports/NASCAR Nation TV Show)(3-29-2005)
DECISION ANNOUNCED: National Stock Car Racing Commission Statement: On March 29, 2005, the National Stock Car Racing Commission heard and considered the Appeal of Richard Childress, Kevin Harvick, and Todd Berrier concerning three penalties assessed by NASCAR relative to the #29 car following the NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series event at Las Vegas Motor Speedway on March 13, 2005.
The infractions concerned Section 12-4-A of the NASCAR Rule Book “Actions detrimental to stock car racing” and Section 12-4-Q “Any determination by NASCAR Officials that the car, car parts, components, and/or equipment used in the Event do not conform to NASCAR rules: unapproved fuel filler and unapproved fuel cell vent.”
The penalties assessed were:
• Loss of 25 NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series Championship Car Owner Points for car owner Richard Childress.
• Loss of 25 NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series Championship Driver Points for Kevin Harvick.
• $25,000.00 fine and suspension from NASCAR until April 20, 2005 and suspension from the next four (4) NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series races for crew chief Todd Berrier.
The Appellants acknowledged that the sealed-off filler and the plug inserted in the vent line were deliberate rules violations, but appealed the severity of the penalties. The Commission found the penalties to be appropriate. Therefore it is the unanimous decision of the National Stock Car Racing Commission to uphold the original penalties assessed by NASCAR. The Commission notes that Mr. Berrier has already served the suspension for one of the four NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series races. The Appellants have the right under Section 15 of the Rule Book to appeal this decision to the National Stock Car Racing Commissioner.(NASCAR PR)(3-30-2005)
Childress Statement Regarding NASCAR Penalty: The following is a statement from Richard Childress, president and CEO of Richard Childress Racing (RCR), regarding NASCAR’s decision to uphold its penalty to RCR’s #29 team for a rules infraction March 11 at Las Vegas Motor Speedway: “It is impossible for me to describe how disappointed I am with NASCAR’s penalty and appeal process. First of all, what Todd Berrier did was wrong and we deserve to be penalized. But I think suspending him for four weeks, in light of everything else that has happened in the past several weeks, is wrong. The infraction took place during qualifying and we were sent to the back of the field to start the race. Penalizing Kevin Harvick, who knew nothing about the infraction before the fact, is also wrong. NASCAR’s decision to deduct driver points, whether it’s Kevin Harvick or any other driver, does an injustice to the sponsors and everyone involved with the racing organization. There is no consistency in NASCAR’s penalty and appeal process. It’s black and white. You’re either legal or you’re not.”(Richard Childress Racing)(3-30-2005)
RCR Will Not Appeal the Appeal: Car owner Richard Childress says he will not appeal the National Stock Car Racing Commission’s decision to uphold the fines and penalties stemming from violations discovered at Las Vegas. Childress told PRN’s Garagepass “It’s over with us…I’m not going to go any further. I’ve said my mind and I’ll leave it up to the fans and the media to say if justice was done or not. Our fans are really into this stuff and they’re the ones that can say hey these guys were being treated fair or they’re not or the systems fair or the system isn’t. I’m surprised at some of the appeals that have been turned over. In my many, many years of doing appeals I’ve never had one changed in my whole career in racing from the days of Dale Earnhardt at Richmond, Virginia and on down the line.”(PRN’s Garagepass Radio Show)(3-31-2005)
THE RULING ANNOUNCED
National Stock Car Racing Commission Statements

#48 Team: On March 22, 2005, the National Stock Car Racing Commission heard and considered the Appeal of Jeff Gordon, Jimmie Johnson and Chad Knaus concerning three penalties assessed by NASCAR relative to the #48 car following the NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series race at Las Vegas Motor Speedway on March 13, 2005. The infractions concerned Section 12-4-A of the NASCAR Rule Book “Actions detrimental to stock car racing” and Section 12-4-Q “Any determination by NASCAR Officials that the car, car parts, components, and/or equipment used in the Event do not conform to NASCAR rules: roof height too low in post-race inspection.”

The penalties assessed were:
• Loss of 25 NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series Championship Car Owner Points for car owner Jeff Gordon.
• Loss of 25 NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series Championship Driver Points for Jimmie Johnson.
• $35,000.00 fine and suspension from NASCAR until April 6, 2005 and suspension from the next two (2) NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series races for crew chief Chad Knaus.

The car was in violation of the rules at the conclusion of the race. This was not contested during the hearing.

Upon review of the evidence presented, and by a majority vote, it is the decision of the National Stock Car Racing Commission to uphold the penalties assessed against Jeff Gordon and Jimmie Johnson and to amend the penalty assessed against Chad Knaus as follows:
$35,000.00 fine. Probation for 90 days, effective from the date of this Hearing.
This decision pertains specifically to the evidence presented in this Appeal. The Commission’s rulings do not have a bearing on existing or announced NASCAR enforcement policies. The Appellant has the right under Section 15 of the Rule Book to appeal this decision to the National Stock Car Racing Commissioner. Commission were John Cooper, Jack Housby, George Silbermann, Chairman.(NASCAR)(3-23-2005)

#5 Team: On March 22, 2005, the National Stock Car Racing Commission heard and considered the Appeal of Rick Hendrick, Kyle Busch and Alan Gustafson concerning three penalties assessed by NASCAR relative to the #5 car following the NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series race at Las Vegas Motor Speedway on March 13, 2005. The infractions concerned Section 12-4-A of the NASCAR Rule Book “Actions detrimental to stock car racing” and Section 12-4-Q “Any determination by NASCAR Officials that the car, car parts, components, and/or equipment used in the Event do not conform to NASCAR rules: quarter panel heights too high in post-race inspection.”

The penalties assessed were:
• Loss of 25 NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series Championship Car Owner Points for car owner Rick Hendrick.
• Loss of 25 NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series Championship Driver Points for Kyle Busch.
• $25,000 fine and suspension from NASCAR until April 6, 2005 and suspension from the next two (2) NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series races for crew chief Alan Gustafson.

The car was in violation of the rules at the conclusion of the race. This was not contested during the hearing.

Upon review of the evidence presented, and by a majority vote, it is the decision of the National Stock Car Racing Commission to uphold the penalties assessed against Rick Hendrick and Kyle Busch and to amend the penalty assessed against Alan Gustafson as follows:

$25,000.00 fine. Probation for 90 days, effective from the date of this Hearing.

This decision pertains specifically to the evidence presented in this Appeal. The Commission’s rulings do not have a bearing on existing or announced NASCAR enforcement policies. The Appellant has the right under Section 15 of the Rule Book to appeal this decision to the National Stock Car Racing Commissioner.Commission were John Cooper, Jack Housby, George Silbermann, Chairman.(NASCAR)(3-23-2005)

What Does this mean? everythings stands EXCEPT the suspensions to Knaus and Gustafson have been recinded.
Hendrick Statement: Team owner Rick Hendrick today commented on the results of Tuesday’s NASCAR appeal hearing, which today rescinded the suspensions of two Hendrick Motorsports crew chiefs. “I appreciate NASCAR giving us the opportunity to present the facts,” Hendrick said. “From our perspective it’s important everyone, especially our fans, know that we absolutely had no intention of breaking any rules. This sport has a rule book for good reason, and it’s vital it be enforced. As an owner, I know it’s equally important to have a just forum for teams and a fair system of checks and balances. We respect NASCAR’s decision and look forward to carrying some momentum into Bristol.”(Hendrick Motorsports)(3-23-2005)
Speeding Penalties at Atlanta: More speeding tickets: NASCAR’s pit road crackdown continued at Atlanta. During the drivers meeting, it was announced there will be no more 15-second penalties for speeding on pit road. Instead, drivers will serve drive-through penalties for speeding or driving through three or more pit boxes when pitting. Dale Jarrett (three times), Dale Earnhardt Jr. (twice), Michael Waltrip and Kurt Busch were busted for speeding Sunday.(FoxSports/Sporting News)(3-21-2005)
Driver Suspensions? Jimmy Spencer, co-host of SPEED Channel’s NASCAR This Morning, reported on Atlanta’s Nextel Cup driver meeting. It was a really important drivers meeting, and (NASCAR president) Mike Helton talked about fitting in the box.
In ’01 and ’02, they escalated the fines to just money. Then it was not enough. And then at Dover in June (last year), he warned it would escalate higher in reaction to the points. One month later, they issued money and points. Today, with what happened last week at Vegas, Mike says that’s it. What (NASCAR’s) going to do, he’s heard about all of the car owners and crew chiefs talking this stuff, the car has to fit in the box. Don’t make (NASCAR) react. “What I wanted to do today was to address you, as we have in the past, to give you the heads up that NASCAR will do whatever it feels like it has to do to maintain the confidence of everybody in the garage that everyone is playing on the same playing field,” Helton said. “Whether it’s intentional or whether it’s not intentional, there is a box that you have to fit in, and it’s our responsibility to react when it doesn’t work right. My assumption of what he said is, “Boys, you could be missing a week. Maybe more.”(FoxSports/Speed Channel)(3-21-2005)
Race Penalties Now Less Severe: Beginning with Sunday’s Golden Corral 500, eight infractions that used to bring a stop-and-go penalty will now be addressed with a pass through the pits. They include a crew member jumping over the wall too soon, too many crewmen in the pit service area, using more than two air wrenches during a stop, and tossing the fuel or catch cans. Other violations now covered by a pass-through penalty are: crew members returning from the equipment side of the wall, illegal use of extension poles, failing to carry the front air wrench to the pit wall side, and noncompliant refueling. A stop-and-go requires a car to return to its pit box for 15 seconds, while the lesser penalty is merely going back through pit road at the required speed limit.(FoxSports/AP)(3-20-2005)
Last Time a win was stripped for an post-race inspection violation? The last time NASCAR [Cup Series] disqualified a winner for failing a post-race inspection was in 1955, according to an official in NASCAR’s statistical services. Fireball Roberts won the Daytona Beach race, but had the win taken away for an engine modification. NASCAR gave Tim Flock the win. Since then, drivers have kept wins regardless of the infractions. NASCAR stripped Rudd of a victory at the Sears Point (now Infineon) road course in 1991 for rough driving. Rudd made contact with leader Davey Allison before the final lap and caused Allison to spin. Rudd crossed the finish line first but was not given the checkered flag. That waved as Allison passed.(News and Record). No Petty was not stripped in 1983, no Mayfield was not stripped in 2002, Skinner and Jarrett had Busch wins stripped NOT Cup.(3-20-2005)
Appeals Allow Suspended Crew Chief’s to be at Atlanta; Berrier to sit out: NASCAR crew chiefs Chad Knaus [#48] and Alan Gustafson [#5] will be allowed to compete in Atlanta this weekend while they appeal their two-race suspension. Both were suspended on Tuesday for allegedly cheating at Las Vegas last weekend. Team owner Rick Hendrick appealed, and the National Stock Car Racing commission can’t assemble until next week to hear their case, NASCAR officials said Wednesday. Under NASCAR’s rules, the crew chiefs can still compete until their appeal has been heard. Todd Berrier was suspended for four races, and NASCAR spokesman Jim Hunter said they expected to receive notice of his plans to appeal in time for him to compete in Atlanta this weekend.(AP/ESPN.com). Richard Childress said onSpeed Channel’s NASCAR Nation that Berrier will sit out the Atlanta race and the suspension will be appealed. Knaus and Gustafson’s apeals will be heard Tues, March 22nd, Berriers on Monday, March 28th.(3-17-2005)
Top Two Finishers May Face Penalties UPDATE Penalties, Fines and Suspensions: Speed Channel is reporting that #48-Jimmie Johnson, the winner at Las Vegas, was found in post race inspection to be too low and the 2nd place finisher #5-Kyle Busch’s Chevy quarter panels were too high. NASCAR decisions will come Monday or Tuesday. The win will probably stand.(3-13-2005)
UPDATE: NASCAR probably won’t take away #48-Jimmie Johnson’s victory in Sunday’s UAW-DaimlerChrysler 400, despite his car’s failing an inspection after the race for being too low at the roof. First, it might be difficult to give the win to teammate #5-Kyle Busch, who finished second, because Busch’s car also failed post-race inspection, for being too high at the rear quarterpanels. But it’s not nice to try to fool John Darby, NASCAR’s competitions director, and his justice may be harsh for both Johnson and Busch. But, a win is a win, no matter the asterisks – and no matter the razzing from rivals. The low roof that led to Johnson’s violation would likely provide both an edge in speed on the straightaways as well as better handling in the corners because more air would reach the crucial rear spoiler. The high rear quarterpanels that led to Busch’s violation would likely provide an edge in handling in the corners, because the rear spoiler would be higher. What NASCAR will likely do is take away enough points, probably 25, to knock Johnson out of the Nextel Cup points lead. That would put Kurt Busch, who finished third, back atop the standings.(Winston Salem Journal)
Wanna stop the cheating….take the freakin’ win away, make a statement, that starting next week, post-RACE infractions cost 25 points, if it is the winner, they drop to 4th or 5th, and the win goes to the 2nd place car, or the next legal car.(3-15-2005)
UPDATE – Fines, Penalties and Suspensions: NASCAR has announced that rule infractions this past weekend at Las Vegas Motor Speedway have resulted in the suspension of three NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series crew chiefs.
The #48 Chevrolet team received three penalties, due to the car’s roof height being too low in post-race inspection — a violation of Section 12-4-A of the NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series rule book (actions detrimental to stock car racing) and Section 12-4-Q (car, car parts, components, and/or equipment used that do not conform to NASCAR rules).
A penalty of 25 driver points dropped Jimmie Johnson — the race winner at Las Vegas — back to second place (500 points) in the standings, 10 behind reigning series champion Kurt Busch (510). Chad Knaus, Johnson’s crew chief, has been suspended from competition for the next two races and fined $35,000; Jeff Gordon, the #48 car owner, has been penalized 25 owner points.
#29 Team: Todd Berrier, crew chief for the #29 Chevrolet driven by Kevin Harvick, has been suspended for the next four races and fined $25,000. Those penalties resulted from the #29 having an unapproved fuel filler and unapproved fuel cell vent. The car was in violation of Sections 12-4-A and 12-4-Q. The violation was found during post-qualifying inspection. In addition to Berrier’s penalties, Harvick has been penalized 25 driver championship points, dropping him from eighth to 10th in the driver standings, while car owner Richard Childress loses 25 car owner championship points.
#5 Team: Alan Gustafson, crew chief for the #5 Chevrolet driven by Kyle Busch, has been suspended for two races and fined $25,000, due to the car’s quarter-panel heights being too high in post-race inspection — also violations of Sections 12-4-A and 12-4-Q. Busch has been assessed 25 driver points, dropping him from 18th to 22nd in the standings; car owner Rick Hendrick loses 25 owner points.
In addition:
Harold Holly, crew chief for the #32 Chevrolet driven by Bobby Hamilton Jr., was fined $5,000 because of the #32 having an unapproved deck lid, a violation of Sections 12-4-A and 12-4-Q that was determined during opening-day inspection.
John Latchford, crew chief for the #89 Dodge driven by Morgan Shepherd, was fined $1,000 because of an unapproved fire suppression agent found during opening-day inspection. That also violated Sections 12-4-A and 12-4-Q.
Larry Carter, crew chief for the #2 Dodge driven by Rusty Wallace, was fined $1,000. During opening-day inspection, the car’s shoulder harness did not have a date tag displayed, a violation of Sections 17.2-C (and 12-4-A).(Fox Sports/Sporting News)
POINTS UPDATED on my Jayski’s Drivers/Owners Points after Las Vegas page.(3-15-2005)
Hendrick Responds to sanctions and to Appeal: Rick Hendrick, owner of Hendrick Motorsports, today responded to sanctions levied by NASCAR on two of his NEXTEL Cup Series entries. “I’m not disputing NASCAR’s right to levy sanctions,” Hendrick said. “As a team owner, I understand why these standards are in place and have always taken pride in the fact that our organization has kept a very clean record. In this particular instance, though, we disagree with the severity of NASCAR’s stance and plan to appeal their decision. I want to make it clear that we in no way intentionally ignored guidelines and I’m certain everyone understands that.”(Hendrick Motorsports)(3-15-2005)
RCR to Appeal NASCAR’s Penalty Against Berrier: Richard Childress Racing (RCR) will appeal the fine and suspension NASCAR handed down today to one of its NEXTEL Cup Series teams as a result of a rules infraction last week at Las Vegas Motor Speedway. “I understand NASCAR’s reasons for imposing a penalty,” said Richard Childress, president and CEO of Richard Childress Racing. “However, I think the penalty they have given us is out of line so we have decided to appeal their ruling.”(RCR)(3-15-2005)
Three Crew Chiefs Fined for California Violations: NASCAR announced today that fines have been issued to three NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series crew chiefs resulting from rule violations this past weekend at California Speedway.
Tim Weiss, crew chief of the #73 Chevrolet driven by Eric McClure, was fined $10,000 for violating Sections 12-4-A (actions detrimental to stock car racing) and 12-4-CC (unapproved third gear transmission ratio) of the NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series rule book.
David Hyder, crew chief of the #49 Dodge driven by Ken Schrader, was fined $5,000 in violation of Sections 12-4-A and 12-4-CC (unapproved final drive gear ratio).
Billy Poindexter, crew chief of the #37 Dodge of Kevin Lepage, was fined twice. Poindexter was fined $5,000 for violating Sections 12-4-A and 12-4-Q (car, car parts, components and/or equipment used that do not conform to NASCAR rules) for an unapproved deck lid. He also was fined $1,000 for violating Sections 12-4-A and 12-4-Q for an unapproved fire suppression agent. All violations were found during opening-day inspection on Feb. 25.(NASCAR)(3-1-2005)
NASCAR announces fines for Daytona infractions: NASCAR announced Wednesday that 15 penalties – including 11 fines totaling $102,000 – have been issued to NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series teams, resulting from rule violations during the Budweiser Shootout and Daytona 500 race weeks at Daytona International Speedway.
Two of those penalties were issued to Robby Gordon Motorsports, including the most severe fine – $50,000 for crew chief Bob Temple – because of an unapproved intake manifold on the #7 Chevrolet discovered during the initial Daytona 500 inspection process on Feb. 11. Robby Gordon’s car owner Jim Smith was penalized 25 car owner championship points. The #7 was in violation of Section 12-4-A (actions detrimental to stock car racing) and Section 12-4-Q (car, car parts, components, and/or equipment that do not conform to NASCAR rules). Gordon currently has no driver championship points, because the #7 failed to make the Daytona 500 field. Smith, however, earned 31 owner points at Daytona. Per the NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series rule book, a car owner receives points based on qualifying results, if their car fails to actually qualify for a starting field.
Four penalties were issued to Wood Brothers Racing, because of an unapproved spoiler adjustment on the #21 Ford that took place after pre-race inspection for the Gatorade Duel at Daytona (Daytona 500 qualifying races) on Feb. 17. Ricky Rudd was penalized 25 driver points; Glen Wood was penalized 25 owner points; and crew chief Michael McSwain was fined $25,000. Also, crew member Marc Smith was suspended from NASCAR competition until March 31. The #21 also was in violation of Sections 12-4-A and 12-4-Q.
Pete Rondeau, crew chief on the #8 Chevrolet driven by Dale Earnhardt Jr., was fined $10,000 for an unapproved third gear transmission ratio. The violation was discovered during the initial inspection for the Budweiser Shootout on Feb. 10. The #8 was in violation of Section 12-4-A and 12-4-CC (unapproved rear end gear or transmission gear ratio).
David Charpentier, crew chief for the #14 Ford driven by John Andretti, was fined $10,000 because of improperly attached weight, a violation of 12-4-A and 12-4-W (improperly attached weight) determined during pre-race inspection for the Daytona 500 on Feb. 20.
Also, the following NASCAR NEXTEL Cup crew chiefs were issued $1,000 fines:
* Harold Holly (#32 Chevrolet driven by Bobby Hamilton Jr.), because of an unapproved fuel cell well (violating Section 12-4-U) found during the initial Daytona 500 inspection on Feb. 11. There were false panels inside the well.
* Jimmy Elledge (#41 Dodge driven by Casey Mears), because of an unapproved window net (12-4-Q) found during initial Budweiser Shootout inspection on Feb. 10.
* Jim Penland (#23 Dodge driven by Mike Skinner), because of an unapproved window net (12-4-Q) found during initial Daytona 500 inspection on Feb. 11.
* Robert Leslie (#33 Chevrolet driven by Kerry Earnhardt), because of an unapproved window net (12-4-Q) found during initial inspection for the Daytona 500 on Feb. 11.
* Beau Tiffany (#52 Ford driven by Larry Gunselman), because of an unapproved fire suppression agent (12-4-Q) found during initial Daytona 500 inspection on Feb. 11.
* Stanton Hover Jr. (#80 Ford driven by Andy Belmont), because of an unapproved side window (12-4-Q) found during initial Daytona 500 inspection on Feb. 11.
* Hover, because of an unapproved fire bottle (12-4-Q) found during the 500’s initial inspection process on Feb. 11.(NASCAR PR)
The penalties drop Rudd from 24th to 33rd in Drivers Points and the team to 33rd in 2005 Owners Points.
Drops Gordon’s team from 44th to 52nd in 2005 Owners Points
Owners points don’t come into play until race #6 for starting spots.(2-23-2005)