Brandon Hopkins vs Michael Waltrip Racing
Brandon Hopkins was a former over the wall tire changer for Michael Waltrip Racing. He was struck by a car during a NASCAR event.
Hopkins claimed he was fired from his job after he was forced to take a leave of absence. Hopkins needed shoulder surgery following the incident. The surgery made it impossible for him to serve his over the wall duties, for a period of time after surgery.
Hopkins was making $160,000 per year while working for the NASCAR Cup Series team. He also claimed that MWR directly told competing teams not to hire him.
Related: Michael Waltrip Racing Lawsuit proceeding
Additionally, Michael Waltrip Racing counter-claimed that Hopkins stole pit guns from the team.
Upon the original case filling, Hopkins stated to the Charlotte Observer, “It’s not about the money. It’s about doing what’s right and what’s wrong and making sure this doesn’t happen to anybody else.”
The case has now been settled out of court.
Michael Waltrip Racing hasn’t competed in the NASCAR Cup Series for several years. The team ceased operations following the 2015 season.
Related: Michael Waltrip Racing Shop For Sale
Statement following settlement
“The Parties to this litigation are pleased to announce that they have amicably resolved their disputes in their entirety, and wish each other well in the future,” a statement was issued to Bob Pockrass of ESPN.
The statement continued, “Michael Waltrip Racing acknowledges that Brandon was a talented tire changer and wishes him well in the sport. Brandon acknowledges that he enjoyed his years with Michael Waltrip Racing and wishes his former teammates well in the future.”
Related: Michael Waltrip Racing Jobs Lost
