NASCAR Imposes Hefty Fine

NASCAR has imposed a hefty fine $100,000 on Paul Menard's crew chief as a result of a series of illegal modifications discovered this past weekend at Michigan International Speedway during the Sprint Cup Series. Slugger Labbe also faces suspension until October 3rd due to penalties as announced on Wednesday. Car chief, Craig Smokstad and crew member, Grant Hutchens are suspended until October 3rd as well. Race officials noted the modifications during a post-race inspection after the race last Sunday. Menard's car was examined at NASCAR's research and development center. NASCAR discovered that the frame rails were purposely modified to go undetected by routine inspectors. Menard along with the owner of the car, Richard Childress, were penalized 25 points each. Labbe, Smokstad and Hutchens will be on probation until for the remainder of the year.