Austin Dillon has been penalized by NASCAR and lost six points on July 2. The car he used for the race at the Kentucky Speedway did not meet NASCAR's guidelines for height. The decision has dampened his victory at the Feed the Children 300 race on June 29, but I think it has not completely eliminated his chances of regaining the lead in the Nationwide Series.
Victory and Inspection
Dillon's celebration did not last long because of NASCAR's inspections after the race. He gained his first victory in the Nationwide Series thanks to his ability to lead most of the laps in the 2012 Feed the Children 300 at the Kentucky Speedway. However, the inspection determined that his car did not meet the height requirements, and the back of the car was too low. Richard Childress has explained, "The right rear jack bolt backed up a little bit on these rough tracks."
NASCAR issued its typical penalties for failing to meet car guidelines. Austin Dillon has lost six points and his crew chief, Danny Stockman Jr., will have to pay a fine of $10,000. Although some have started to question the validity of Dillon's win, NASCAR has decided to let him keep the victory and only suffer a loss of points.
Probation Continues for Danny Stockman Jr.
Some fans have placed the blame on Danny Stockman Jr. who was on probation prior to the latest incident at the Kentucky Speedway. The loss of six points has pushed Austin Dillon out of the lead in the Nationwide Series. Danny Stockman Jr. was initially placed on probation by NASCAR in April 2012 for the use of illegal bumper covers at the Richmond International Raceway. Despite adding another fine, NASCAR has no plans for other penalties in this case.
Dillon was only able to experience the points lead in the Nationwide Series for a short amount of time. Will he able to get the lead back as the rest of the 2012 season progresses? NASCAR has indicated that it does not plan on imposing any more penalties in relation to this incident, so he has the chance to redeem himself.
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Growing up in Indiana, Lana developed a love for motorsports at an early age. She follows NASCAR, IndyCar and Formula One. Follow @Lana_Bandoim on Twitter.
