The penalties handed to Austin Dillon and Richard Childress Racing following Dillon’s actions at the conclusion of the NASCAR Cup Series race at Richmond (Va.) Raceway have been upheld by the National Motorsports Appeals Panel on Wednesday.
The panel did reduce the suspension of Brandon Benesch, the spotter of the No. 3 Chevrolet, to one race. It was initially a three-race suspension.
The penalty concerns Sections 4.4.B NASCAR Member Code of Conduct Penalty Options and Guidelines; 10.1.A General Procedure; 12.3.2.1.B Eligibility. Benesch was cited for violating 4.4.D and 10.1.A.
On Aug. 11 at Richmond, Dillon wrecked Joey Logano and Denny Hamlin on the last lap, which allowed the RCR driver to win. While his victory still stands, Dillon’s eligibility in the playoffs, which was revoked following the Aug. 14 penalties, was upheld.
Dillon and the No. 3 team were also docked 25 points in the drivers’ and owners’ standings.
The appeals panel, consisting of Tom DeLoach, Kelly Housby and Tommy Wheeler, released a statement following their decision.
“NASCAR represents elite motorsports and, as such, its drivers are expected to demonstrate exemplary conduct if its series’ championships are to be validated. In this case, the ‘line’ was crossed.”
RCR also released a statement, announcing the team would appeal the panel’s decision.
“Richard Childress Racing is disappointed in the results of today’s hearing in front of the National Motorsports Appeals Panel,” the statement read. “We respect the NASCAR appeals process, but we do not believe that today’s outcome reflects the facts presented. We plan to appeal the decision to the Final Appeal Officer.”