Paul Menard and the Richard Childress Racing No. 27 team was docked 25 points for infractions found in post-race inspection at Michigan, and crew chief Slugger Labbe was fined $100,000 and suspended until October 3 for frame rail modifications.
According to the release from NASCAR, "The No. 27 team was found to be in violation of Sections 12-1 (actions detrimental to stock car racing); 12-4K (race equipment that has been previously certified or previously approved by NASCAR for use in an event, pursuant to sub-section 8-12, has been altered, modified, repaired or changed in any manner. Intentionally modifying frame rails for the purpose of deceiving NASCAR's inspection gauges) of the 2012 NASCAR Rule Book."
Menard finished 9th at Michigan. The penalty dropped him from 15th to 16th in the points standings.
Car chief Craig Smokstad and crew member Grant Hutchens were also suspended until October 3 and both he and Labbe are on probation until the end of the year. Childress said that he was going to appeal the penalties, so until the appeals process is complete, Labbe will be on top of the pit box.
