DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. — Bubba Wallace has been suspended for this weekend’s NASCAR Cup Series race at Homestead-Miami Speedway.
Wallace was suspended the result of a highly publicized incident with Kyle Larson that happened on lap 94 of the South Point 400. The duo made contact on the track and later had a physical conflict at the accident scene where Wallace shoved the reigning Cup Series champion.
Wallace was suspended for violations of Sections 4.3.A and 4.4.C & E of the NASCAR Member Code of Conduct laid out in the NASCAR Rule Book. Rule 4.4.C lists “intentionally wrecking or spinning another vehicle, whether or not that vehicle is removed from competition as a result” as one of five member actions that could result in a penalty.
The accident also collected playoff driver Christopher Bell in the process.
On Monday night Wallace issued a statement on his social media accounts addressing the situation.
“I want to apologize for my actions on Sunday following the on-track incident with Kyle Larson and the No. 5 car,” Wallace wrote. “My behavior does not align with the core values that are shared by 23XI Racing and our partners, who have played a crucial role in my incredible journey to the top of this great sport.”
23XI Racing has named John Hunter Nemechek to replace Wallace for this weekend.
Other Penalties
In other penalties issued on Tuesday afternoon:
- Ben Beshore, crew chief of the No. 18 Joe Gibbs Racing Toyota, will miss the next four races along with jackman Derrell Edwards and tire changer Michael Hicks after the left-front wheel detached from Busch’s car under caution at Las Vegas. The suspensions carry through the Busch Light Clash at the Coliseum.
- In the Xfinity Series, the No. 51 Jeremy Clements Racing team was levied an L1-level penalty for violating Section 14.4.B.E, which pertains to the body. The penalty report notes “Flange Fit Composite Body must be used as supplied from the manufacturer without modification.”
Crew chief Mark Setzer was fined $25,000 and suspended from this weekend’s race at Homestead-Miami Speedway while the team was docked 40 driver and owner points.
- Chris Gayle, crew chief of the No. 54 Joe Gibbs Racing Toyota in the Xfinity Series, was also issued a $5,000 fine after the car was found with one loose lug nut following Saturday’s event.