Here are the updated lines in the NASCAR rule book regarding fighting and more
In October, Bubba Wallace and Kyle Larson made contact off turn four. Wallace then retaliated, turning left into Larson’s right rear quarter panel.
Video: Bubba Wallace attacks Kyle Larson at Las Vegas
Both cars were destroyed. However, Wallace climbed from his mangled machine to have words with Larson. As he approached the driver, he lunged toward him, pushing Larson against his car. Wallace then shoved Larson several more times as the No. 5 driver attempted to walk away from the scene.
NASCAR handed the book to Wallace following the altercation. He was suspended for one race as officials noted sections 4.3.A, 4.4.C, and 4.4.E of the rule book.
Altercations aren’t new to NASCAR. Usually, in the past, they’ve rarely resulted in any penalties at all. However, last year, NASCAR hinted that that might change going forward.
For 2023, NASCAR has adjusted multiple pages of the rule book. One of those changes is in regards to member-to-member altercations.
NASCAR Rule Book
Altercations
New or removed lines are in bold:
A: 25,000-$50,000 fine
Member actions that could results in a $25,000-$50,000 fine:
– Disparaging the sport and/or NASCAR’s leadership.
– Verbal abuse of a NASCAR official, media members, fans, etc.
– (Removed) Intentionally damaging another vehicle on pit road with no one around under yellow or red flag conditions or Post-Race
– Failure to complete media obligations as outlined in the applicable Driver and Team Owner Agreements.
– (Removed) Failure to comply with any NASCAR mandated pandemic related special instructions, including but not limited to:
— (Removed) Immediately reporting if a Member is diagnosed with or exposed to a confirmed case of COVID 19 (within 24 hours of exposure/positive test).
NASCAR says Bubba Wallace committed ‘dangerous act’ in retaliation
B: $50,000-$100,000 fine
Member actions that could result in a loss of 25-5 driver and/or Team Owner Points and/or $50,000-$100,000 fine. Violations may also result in Race suspension(s), indefinite suspension, or termination member revocation:
– Physical confrontation with a NASCAR official, media members, fans, etc.
– (Removed) Member to Member confrontation(s) with physical violence and other violent manifestations such as significant threat(s) and/or abuse and/or endangerment.
– Attempting to manipulate the outcome of the Race of Championship
– (New) Intentionally damaging another vehicle on pit road.
– Intentionally Wrecking or spinning another vehicle, whether or not that vehicle is removed from Competition as a result.
Kyle Larson comments after NASCAR suspends Bubba Wallace
D: Membership Revoked
Member actions that could result in a fine and/or indefinite suspension, or termination membership revocation:
– Actions by a NASCAR Member that NASCAR finds to be detrimental to stock car racing or NASCAR.
– Statement and/or communication made public (including social media platforms) that demeans, criticizes, ridicules, or otherwise disparages another person based upon that person’s race, color, creed, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, marital status, religion, age, or handicapping condition.
– (New) Member-to-member confrontation(s) with physical violence (e.g. striking another Competitor) and other violent manifestations such as significant threat(s) and/or abuse and/or endangerment.
– (New) Multiple violations of the Code of Conduct.
– Being charged with or convicted of significant criminal violations (e.g. Domestic Violence, Trafficking, Assault), or having had determinations rendered by criminal or civil authorities that in NASCAR’s judgement necessitate action.
– (New) Selling NASCAR Single Event Credentials (VIP Passes, Essential Worker Passes, etc.).
– Violations of NASCAR’s Sports Gambling Policy.
NASCAR Rule Changes for 2023: Stage racing update, wall riding, mufflers, rain tires and more
Links
Kyle Larson | Bubba Wallace | Las Vegas Motor Speedway | NASCAR
