The team was handed a $100 fine after the race at Atlanta Motor Speedway
Two weeks ago, NASCAR raced at Atlanta Motor Speedway. The race was a first of it’s kind as the rules created a superspeedway event on a 1.5-mile track. The race looked very similar to Daytona and Talladega where drafting and aerodynamics play a major role.
After the race, all cars cleared to post-race at-track inspection. However, NASCAR selected several cars at random to take back to North Carolina for a separate inspection at the NASCAR R&D Center.
Following the inspection, the RFK Racing No. 6 driven by Brad Keselowski was found in violation of sections 14.1 and 14.5 of the NASCAR Rule Book. Those rules are related to the modification of a stock part.
Related: NASCAR fines Roush Fenway Keselowski Racing $100,000
Penalty to RFK Racing
– 100 point driver’s point penalty
– 100 point owner’s point penalty
– Loss of 10 playoff points
– Four race suspension for crew chief Matt McCall
– $100,000 fine to Matt McCall
NASCAR announced a new penalty system earlier this year. The fines and penalties are much larger as NASCAR attempts to keep a level playing field with the Next Gen car.
The team elected to appeal the penalty. That appeals panel heard their case on Thursday and they’ve decided the penalty stands without modification.
With the appeal, RFK Racing had the option to defer the suspension of their crew chief until the appeal ruling. However, they elected not to do so as engineer Josh Sell was already scheduled to sit on the pit box (per an earlier team statement). With the appeal ruling, McCall has now already served two of his four week suspension.
Related: NASCAR penalty system updated with possible $500k fine
Appeals Panel:
– Mr. Dixon Johnston
– Mr. Bill Mullis
– Mr. Dale Pinilis
RFK Racing issues statement
On Thursday afternoon, the team issued the following statement:
“Although we are disappointed in the outcome of the appeal hearing, we are advocates of the process NASCAR has set forth and appreciate the opportunity to make our voice heard in the matter.”
“With that in mind, we do not intend to pursue this further and our focus remains on our upcoming races, with Martinsville up first this weekend.”
RFK Racing had the option to appeal the ruling to the final appeals officer. It would have been their last appeal. However, they have elected not to do that.
The NASCAR Cup Series is back in action this Saturday night at Martinsville Speedway.
Related: Atlanta Race Results from March 20, 2022 (NASCAR Cup Series)
Related: RFK Racing comments after $100,000 NASCAR fine
Links
Brad Keselowski | Roush Fenway Keselowski Racing | Atlanta Motor Speedway | NASCAR
