Associated Press
CHARLOTTE ó Daytona 500 winner Ryan Newman became the latest driver penalized by NASCAR, losing 25 points Tuesday because his car failed inspection at Texas Motor Speedway.
Newmanís No. 12 Dodge was too high when NASCAR inspected it following its fourth-place run, an adjustment that could provide additional downforce to his car.
iWhat happened last week was a mistake and weíre moving on from it and looking forward to this week,î Newman said. iWe hate to lose points, but we have a good team and we will be able to make them up.î
The penalty dropped Newman from eighth to 10th in the Sprint Cup standings.
Also penalized were car owner Roger Penske, who was docked 25 points, and crew chief Roy McCauley, fined $25,000 and placed on probation until the end of the year.
There was no immediate word from Penske Racing South about appealing the penalty, but the team indicated it plans to move on.
iIt is always our intention to follow NASCARís rules, and we regret this mistake,î said Michael Nelson, vice president of racing operations. iWe look forward to getting back to the track this week and are focused on having a strong run at Phoenix.î