NASCAR extends suspension of Harvick’s crew chief
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (AP) – Crew chief Todd Berrier was suspended an additional two races Tuesday for violations in Kevin Harvick’s car, bringing his total events missed this season to seven. NASCAR found several violations in the trunk of Harvick’s car after he qualified second at Talladega Superspeedway. The Chevy was disqualified and Berrier was thrown out of the weekend’s events.
Berrier’s punishment was extended Tuesday when NASCAR said he can’t attend another race until Oct. 19. He was also fined $10,000 and placed on probation until Dec. 31.
NASCAR viewed Berrier as a repeat offender; he was suspended for four races earlier this year when Harvick’s fuel tank was found rigged in Las Vegas.
Three other crew chiefs were also penalized Tuesday for infractions at Talladega.
Tony Gibson, crew chief for Michael Waltrip, was fined $10,000 for using an unapproved air directional device and unapproved wheel spacers.
Tony Eury Jr., crew chief for Dale Earnhardt Jr.; and Dustin Smith, crew chief for Morgan Shepherd, were both fined $2,500 for using unapproved fuel cell foam.