Nascar suspends nine people after controversial round in the playoffs
- Jeroen Immink
Nine people, including team members and drivers, have been suspended following the NASCAR Cup Series race at Martinsville. The series has suggested the race was potentially manipulated.
Something remarkable took place on the last lap of the race. The championship battle is between William Byron and Christopher Bell. The latter was a lap behind at Martinsville while Byron was in the lead. Austin Dillon, Bubba Wallace, and Ross Chastain raced right behind leader Byron but did not make a single attempt to overtake him.
They actually prevented others from getting closer to Byron. The NASCAR organisers also noted several suspicious team radio calls, and they acted immediately.
All drivers and team members involved will be fined $100,000. In addition, 50 points will also be deducted, with huge consequences for the championship. Several suspensions have also been handed out. All teams involved have since announced via a statement that they intend to appeal.
This article has been created in collaboration with Matt Gretton
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