Gio Ruggiero vs Steven Nasse in the Winchester 400: Penalties issued by ASA
Over the weekend the ASA Stars raced in Indiana. Winchester Speedway hosted the famed Winchester 400.
Steven Nasse and Gio Ruggiero were in a battle for the lead. In a late race restart, Ruggiero ran Naase wide into turn one and into the outside wall.
Ruggiero went on to win the race. However, Nasse met him on the front stretch during victory lane celebrations.
Tensions were high after the race. Crew members began to step over the infield wall.
Ruggiero then stepped on the gas to begin burnout celebrations. As Ruggiero celebrated the win, he struck a crew member of Nasse, sending him flying across the track.
Nasse climbed from his car, race across the track and attempted to get to Ruggiero.
After the drama, ASA has issued penalties to both drivers.
Section 1 Conduct, Rule 1: “Unsportsmanlike Conduct and/or actions detrimental to the sport of auto racing,” and Rule 5 “Fighting will not be tolerated.”
Winchester 400 altercation; Crew struck during burnout (Video)
Gio Ruggiero Penalty
– Loss of twenty-five (25) finishing position championship owner and driver points.
– A fine of $3,000 dollars
– Placed on probation for all ASA events in the remainder of the calendar year.
Stephen Nasse penalty
– Loss of forty-four (44) finishing position championship owner and driver points.
– A fine of $4,500 dollars
– Placed on probation for all ASA events in the remainder of the calendar year.
“In addition, four individuals connected with the No.51 team have been suspended for the remainder of the ASA STARS National Tour season and have been placed on probation for the first three races of the 2024 season. Suspension includes the pits, garage, racing surface and spotter stand.”
Watch the video of the altercation
Links
Gio Ruggerio | Stephen Nasse | Winchester Speedway | ASA Stars
