Appeals Panel Upholds Truck Series Penalties

The National Stock Car Racing Appeals Panel has heard the appeal of the No. 57 NASCAR Camping World Truck Series entry, driven by Norm Benning.

The penalties concern Section 12-1: Actions detrimental to stock car racing; Section 12-4J: (any determination by NASCAR Officials that race equipment used in the event does not conform to NASCAR rules detailed in Section 20B of the NASCAR Rule Book, or has not been approved by NASCAR prior to the Event); Section 20B-2.3A: (any weight added to the truck must be bolted inside the body shell in an approved weight container and in a position acceptable to NASCAR Officials: Improperly attached weight to the truck bed cover) of the 2012 NASCAR rule book.

The penalties stemmed from a failed opening-day inspection in the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series event at Talladega Superspeedway on Thursday, Oct. 4, and consisted of a $5,000 fine and NASCAR probation until Dec. 31 for crew chief Ted Walters; a penalty that was appealed by the team.

After hearing the testimony and carefully reviewing the facts, the National Stock Car Racing Appeals Panel – consisting of Cathy Rice, Buddy Parrott and Humpy Wheeler -- ruled unanimously to uphold the original penalties assessed by NASCAR, effective immediately. The Appellant has the right under Section 15 of the rule book to appeal this decision to the National Stock Car Racing Chief Appellate Officer.