NASCAR imposes heavy penalties on Sammy Smith after Martinsville incident

NASCAR has issued major penalties following a chaotic end to the Martinsville race, with Sammy Smith of JR Motorsports receiving a $25,000 fine and a 50-point deduction in the championship standings.

The sanctions come after Smith deliberately attempted to wreck Taylor Gray in the final corner, causing significant disruption on the track. As a result, Smith drops from 6th to 13th in the overall standings.

Additional disciplinary actions were taken:

• Taylor Gray and Jeb Burton were fined $5,000 each for violating the code of conduct at the infield care center. Gray confronted Smith, while Burton engaged in a verbal clash with Daniel Dye.

• Penalties were also issued to Shane van Gisbergen’s team following a loose wheel incident:

  • Aslan Pugh (jackman) suspended for the next two races

  • Jonpatrik Kealey (rear tire changer) also suspended for two races

  • Haas Factory team fined $5,000 for unsecured lug nuts

  • Spire Motorsports team fined $2,500 for equipment safety violations

NASCAR’s strict response emphasizes its stance on safety and sportsmanship, especially in high-stakes race environments.