Sad News: NASCAR Penalizes Chase Elliott Following Code of Conduct Violation at Bristol Motor Speedway”
NASCAR has handed down disciplinary action against star driver Chase Elliott following a high-profile code of conduct violation that occurred during last weekend’s Cup Series race at Bristol Motor Speedway.
According to an official statement released by NASCAR on Monday morning, Elliott was found to have “engaged in unsportsmanlike and threatening behavior” during a heated post-race altercation with fellow driver Tyler Reddick and a crew member from RCR Racing.
Video footage widely circulated on social media shows Elliott confronting Reddick in the pit area after the race, visibly angry over a late-race incident that caused both cars to spin out. The exchange turned physical when Elliott appeared to shove a crew member who stepped between the drivers.
The Penalty
NASCAR has issued the following sanctions:
- A $75,000 fine for violation of the NASCAR Code of Conduct
- 25 driver points deducted, severely impacting his playoff standings
- One-race probation lasting through the next event at Talladega
“While we understand emotions run high in the heat of competition, we have a responsibility to uphold professional conduct standards both on and off the track,” said NASCAR Senior VP of Competition, Elton Sawyer. “No one is above the rules.”
Elliott Responds
Chase Elliott addressed the incident in a short media scrum outside his team hauler Tuesday afternoon.
“I let my emotions get the best of me,” Elliott said. “I’ve reached out to Tyler and the RCR crew to apologize. I’ll accept the penalty and move on. I’m focused on rebounding at Talladega.”
Fan and Industry Reaction
The penalty has split fans down the middle, with some defending Elliott’s passion and others calling for even harsher discipline. NASCAR legend Dale Earnhardt Jr. weighed in on his podcast, calling the move “unfortunate but necessary.”
“You gotta control that fire. Chase is a hell of a driver, but NASCAR’s got to be consistent.”
With the playoff picture tightening, Elliott now finds himself teetering just outside the top 10—a surprising turn for the 2020 champion. His performance at the next race could make or break his postseason hopes.
