$100,000 in fines issued; Two Hendrick Motorsports employees suspended
Over the weekend, NASCAR took the green flag at New Hampshire Motor Speedway. The race saw Aric Almirola drive to the win.
In races prior, Hendrick Motorsports has been dominating. Recently, for the first time in the history of the sport, the team locked out the top four spots in the finishing order. And in the last 22 races, HMS has won 10 of them.
Related: New Hampshire Penalty Report: July 2021 (NASCAR)
The official penalty report has already been released. However, there have been some additional penalties handed out on Thursday. An unusual amendment to the penalty report.
Hendrick Motorsports teams of Chase Elliott and Alex Bowman have both been found in violation of Section 20.6.1.e.
Section 20.6.1.e: “When the long block is sealed, the engine must be used in the same vehicle number the next time it is used.”
Penalty: 25 points have been deducted from both driver and owner points. Crew chiefs Alan Gustafson (No. 9 team) and Greg Ives (No. 48) were each fined $50,000. Hendrick Motorsports executive vice president and general manager Jeff Andrews and the organization’s director of track engine support Scott Maxim have been handed a one-race suspension.
Related: NASCAR comments on review of Kyle Busch hitting the pace car
Hendrick Motorsports statement
“Due to an administrative error, one of our sealed engines assigned to the No. 9 car was unintentionally allocated to our No. 48 team at New Hampshire Motor Speedway,” the statement opened.
“Although the engine passed technical inspection and absolutely no competitive advantage was gained, we acknowledge NASCAR’s process was not followed correctly in this instance. The rules regarding the assignment of sealed engines are clear, and we understand and respect their decision to issue a penalty. We apologize for the mistake and have taken steps to ensure it will not be repeated.”
With the penalty in place, Elliott drops from 5th to 6th in the standings. Bowman remains in 11th. Only four races remain in the regular season.
Related: New Hampshire Results: July 18, 2021 (NASCAR Cup Series)
Links
Chase Elliott | Alex Bowman | Hendrick Motorsports | New Hampshire Motor Speedway | NASCAR
