James McFadden in the Roth Motorsports No. 83
Whether it be Late Models, Sprint Cars, or Modifieds, the various sanctioning bodies that preside over dirt racing are serious about their teams not altering tires with chemical substances. We have in the past seen wins or good finishes taken away and other types of penalties issued. Obviously after a ruling that came down on April 27th, the World of Outlaws NOS Energy Drink Sprint Car Series is among the most stern in regard to the altering of tires.
On April 14th at the Federated Auto Parts Raceway at I-55 in Pevely, Missouri, Roth Motorsports driver James McFadden started mid-pack in the 40-lap feature but a late race charge placed the Australian second in the final running order behind eventual winner and defending WoO Sprint Car champion Brad Sweet. However, the story did not end there.
When the results of a tire sample taken from McFadden’s No. 83 machine were returned to the sanctioning body from an independent laboratory, the series took strong action.
According to the penalty report issued by the World of Outlaws NOS Energy Drink Sprint Car Series, the sample taken from the right rear tire of that car did not conform to benchmarks provided by Hoosier Tire Company(supplier to WoO teams). The statement indicates that the results of the test show the tire had been chemically altered. Additional analysis confirmed the first report.
Perhaps, though, the real news came in the announcement of the penalty to be issued.
McFadden and Roth Motorsports have been disqualified from their runner-up finish in Pevely. Further, A fine of $8,200 was levied which includes the return of the $6,000 earned from the race purse, an additional $2,000 penalty along with $200 for the cost of the test. A total of 500 points will be taken away from the driver and team. And finally, McFadden, crew members, and the car owner must serve a four-race suspension.
Roth Motorsports has filed an appeal. The team will be allowed to compete in future events until that appeal is heard. McFadden currently ranks 7th in the series standings with two wins, four top-5s and seven top-10 finishes.
Please consider also reading:
Respond to this post on Twitter by following @RichardAllenIDR and @MichaelRMoats or by liking the InsideDirtRacing.com Facebook page.
Also, NASCAR and pavement racing fans can check out InsideCircleTrack.com
