BROOKLYN, Mich. — NASCAR and Legacy Motor Club have suspended Noah Gragson for liking a racially insensitive social media post.
Josh Berry will drive the No. 42 car this weekend at Michigan International Speedway, the team announced.
“We have made the decision to suspend Noah Gragson effective immediately regarding his actions that do not represent the values of our team,” the team stated. “Josh Berry will drive the No. 42 entry for this weekend’s NASCAR Cup Series race at Michigan.”
NASCAR stated: “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 placed him under indefinite suspension.”
Section 4.3.E in the Cup Rule Book states: “NASCAR Members shall not make or cause to be made a public statement and/or communication that criticizes, ridicules, or otherwise disparages another person based upon that person’s race, color, creed, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, marital status, religion, age, or handicapping condition.”
Section 4.4.D in the Cup Rule Book states: “Member actions that could result in a fine and/or indefinite suspension (for) ... Statement and/or communication made public (including social media platforms) that demeans, criticizes, ridicules, or otherwise disparages another person based upon that person’s race, color, creed, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, marital status, religion, age, or handicapping condition.”
Chevrolet also issued a statement: “We support the decision of NASCAR and Legacy Motor Club to suspend Noah Gragson. Noah’s actions do not align with our beliefs and brand values. We will work with Legacy Motor Club on next steps.”
Gragson issued a statement on social media:
“I am disappointed in myself for my lack of attention and actions on social media. I understand the severity of this situation. I love and appreciate everyone. I try to treat everyone equally no matter who they are. I messed up plain and simple.”
The 25-year-old is in his first season running full-time in the Cup Series.