On February 1, NASCAR revealed some of the rule changes for the coming season. On February 2, they released the updated penalty report with a number of changes.
Last October, Bubba Wallace wrecked Kyle Larson and subsequently exited his car and attacked and shoved Larson. As a result, Wallace was suspended for a single race; much to the outrage of some fans. Over the years, there have been a number of aggressive discussions between drivers but seldom resulted in any penalty.
NASCAR has made a number of changes to the rule book including:
Any NASCAR member (driver, crew member, etc.) who talks against the sport or verbally abuses another member may be fined $25,000 to $50,000. Drivers who do not meet their media obligations may also be fined.
Any member who physically confronts another member, media personnel, fan, or NASCAR official can not only be fine $50,000 to $100,000; but can also be docked five to 25 driver and owner points. Violations of the rule can also result in suspensions or even a revocation.
Any attempts to alter the outcome of the race, intentionally wreck another car – on the track or pit road – will also result in lost driver and owner points; along with a possible fine, suspension, or revocation.
Any action NASCAR deems detrimental to the sport can result in a fine, suspension, or even revocation of membership.
Even off the track, NASCAR members represent the sport itself and NASCAR expects its members to conduct themselves in a civilized and proper manner. To that end “any statement and/or communication made public (including social media platforms) that demeans, criticizes, ridicules, or otherwise disparages another person based upon that person’s race, color, creed, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, marital status, religion, age, or handicapping condition” may result in fines, suspension or even revocation of membership.
Attacks on a fellow competitor (driver or crew) will result in a penalty as will threats or abuse. Repeated violations of the conduct policy will also result in a more severe penalty.
Any member of NASCAR who is charged or convicted of a crime will also face a further penalty from NASCAR.
Selling one’s NASCAR credentials including work and VIP passes will result in a penalty.
Violations of the sport’s Gaming Policy will also result in a penalty.