The dirt track allowed the fight to happen; They have since issued a statement noting they are looking for “a safer and more effective way to handle confrontations between competitors.”
But, no changes are necessary.
Farmington Empire Speedway is a 3/8-mile dirt track in Farmington, Missouri. The track is located just an hour south of St. Louis.
The gloves went flying during the B-Modified feature. Racing drivers Tyler Worley and Collin Parmer threw haymakers on the front stretch to the roar of the crowd.
Watch the dirt track fight video below.
The track was well aware the two drivers wanted to fight. And instead of it happening in the pit area, the track told the drivers to meet on the frontstretch.
Officials stood nearby and gave them space to fight out their disagreement. Once the drivers went to the ground, multiple officials stepped in.
This should be far more common. However, the track is now looking to change their policy…
Farmington Empire Speedway Statement
After the incident, the track issued the following statement:
“We sincerely apologize to everyone who attended the track event last night. Our intention was never to condone violence, and we deeply regret that the experience may have given the impression otherwise.”
“In the recent past we have seen incidents of fights and heated arguments at events, which at times have resulted in injuries—something we especially want to avoid for innocent bystanders. In many situations two individuals both want to confront each other.”
“In an effort to manage such situations more effectively, we requested that any disputes remain on the track.”
“This approach has been used at some televised racing venues in the past, where it helped mitigate escalation in high-tension situations. We were under the impression that this approach was the best way to handle said situations.”
“Nonetheless, we recognize that asking participants to confine disagreements to the track was not the ideal solution. We are revisiting our rules and procedures to establish a safer and more effective way to handle confrontations between competitors.”
“Thank you for your understanding and for your continued support.”
The video of the fight is posted below.
