Recent weeks have seen numerous complaints by NASCAR fans and drivers alike over the activity on the track. NASCAR has a policy to let the drivers handle adversarial activities themselves unless in their view the situation gets out of hand.

However, off the field NASCAR has little room for tolerance when it comes to violating the rules. On October 20, NASCAR suspended indefinitely part time Xfinity Series driver Carson Ware after he was arrested for assault and property damage.

In their statement on Ware’s suspension, NASCAR cited section 12.8.1.e of the NASCAR rule book which states, “Being charged with or convicted of significant criminal violations (e.g. Domestic Violence, Trafficking, Assault), or having had determinations rendered by criminal or civil authorities that in NASCAR’s judgement necessitate action. NASCAR will not pre-judge guilt or innocence in the criminal or civil legal system, or the guilt or innocence of the Member, but rather review each matter in its own context and circumstances and with regards to its potential effects upon the sport.”

The Rowan County Sheriff’s Office in North Carolina charged Ware with assault on a woman, simple assault and damage to personal property. The 21 year old was released with a $1,000 bond.

Ware’s racing team SS Green Light Racing also suspended the driver. He was originally scheduled to run in the race at Kansas Speedway on October 23; Garrett Smithley will now get behind the wheel of the number 17 car.

Ware’s father Rick released a statement via his racing team on Wednesday saying, “this morning I was notified of a situation that involved Carson Ware. At this time, Carson has been indefinitely suspended from SS Green Light Racing and NASCAR. While I am frustrated by the actions of Carson, I am even more disappointed for Bobby Dotter and his entire team. Bobby has been a great ally through the years, and I hate to see SS Green Light Racing under scrutiny due to actions that do not reflect the reputation and image that Bobby has worked hard to uphold over the years. My hope is that Carson will get the help that he needs during this difficult time.”

feature photo credit: Carson ware (51276388562) (cropped).jpg