CONCORD, N.C. (AP) - Ryan Newman is replacing Martin Truex Jr. in the Chase for the Sprint Cup championship as part of NASCAR’S penalties against Michael Waltrip Racing for manipulating the outcome of last weekend’s race at Richmond.
Two independent people familiar with the situation described the penalties to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because NASCAR had yet to announce its decision. The governing body had scheduled a news conference for Monday night.
Michael Waltrip Racing has been fined $300,000, and general manager Ty Norris is suspended indefinitely. Truex, Clint Bowyer and Brian Vickers have been docked 50 points apiece.
The action by NASCAR is a result of Bowyer intentionally spinning with seven laps remaining to bring out a caution with Newman leading Saturday night. Newman was racing Truex for the final spot in the 12-driver Chase field.
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