Driver Noah Gragson has been suspended indefinitely by NASCAR and Legacy Motor Club for liking an insensitive meme that includes a photograph of George Floyd’s face.
“I am disappointed in myself for my lack of attention and actions on social media,” Gragson wrote Saturday.
“I understand the seriousness of this situation. I love and appreciate everyone. I try to treat everyone equally no matter who they are. I just messed up.’
NASCAR, meanwhile, said in a statement, “NASCAR fully supports Legacy Motor Club’s decision to suspend Noah Gragson.
“Following his actions on social media, NASCAR has determined that Gragson has violated the Member Conduct section of the 2023 NASCAR Rule Book and has suspended him indefinitely.”
Driver Noah Gragson has been suspended indefinitely by NASCAR and Legacy Motor Club
Floyd, who was black, died in 2020 after a white police officer knelt on his neck for 9 1/2 minutes.
His demise sparked large protests all over the world and compelled a nationwide counting on racial injustice.
Josh Berry will drive the No. 42 Chevrolet at Sunday’s race at Michigan International Speedway to switch Gragson.
NASCAR mentioned Gragson violated its rule ebook member conduct, with out offering particulars.
“His actions do not represent our team’s values,” Legacy Motor Club mentioned in an announcement.
Gragson, 25, who hails from Las Vegas, is in his first full season within the Cup sequence and is ranked No. 33 in factors.
Last 12 months he gained the Xfinity Series’ Most Popular Driver Award – driving the sequence from 2019 to 2022.