Wrecks are nothing new at Talladega…neither are flaring tempers.
Near the end of the Love’s RV Stop 250 at Talladega Superspeedway last Saturday afternoon, Craftsman Truck Series driver Nick Sanchez and Matt Crafton were involved in a wreck that took both drivers out of the race. Crafton brought his truck to a stop in Sanchez’ pit box and offered a few choice words to the crew before heading to the garage.
But the animosity did not end there and a fight ensued in the garage area with accusations of a “sucker punch” and threats of retribution.
After full consideration of events, NASCAR officials have decided upon the punishment for the drivers. After considering suspensions, Matt Crafton has been fined $25,000 and Nick Sanchez has been fined $5,000. In addition, Rene Sanchez – Nick’s father – has been suspended from on track events for the remainder of the 2023 season – two races – for his participation in the fight.
In other Talladega penalties…Chandler Smith has been charged with a safety violation after failing to wear the required protective head sock/helmet skirt during qualifying for the Cup Series race on Saturday afternoon. As a result, Smith has been fined $10,000.