Castroneves on probation and fined after Edmonton race
Penske Racing's Helio Castroneves has been fined $60,000 and placed on probation by IndyCar officials as a result of his actions after the Edmonton race two weeks ago.
Castroneves received the penalty Tuesday after a meeting with officials took place on Monday. The penalty hearing occurred more than a week after Castroneves was black flagged for blocking Will Power on a restart in the final lap. Castroneves will remain under probation for the remainder for the year, and escaped being suspended.
According to IndyCar CEO Randy Bernard, before settling on probation the committee had considered suspending the driver, but opted against it to afford fans the opportunity to finish out the season with one of the sport’s most popular drivers still out on the track. Bernard supported their decision not to suspend Castroneves in a statement:
"[Castroneves] is a great ambassador for this sport and we know his actions after the race in Edmonton are not indicative of his normal behaviour."
Castroneves might have gotten off easy on this one, but he will not waste any more time dwelling on the issue.
"I understand and accept the league's decision to penalize me for my reaction," Castroneves said. "I am ready to move forward."
Castroneves was shown the black flag but finished the race instead, although he was quickly stripped of his first-place finish because of his actions. Upon learning of his penalty Castroneves lost his temper, holding one IRL official by the collar and shaking him.
“I let my emotions get the better of me,” Castroneves said in a statement released after the incident occurred.
The Brazilian driver was penalized for failing to follow orders from officials, and for unsportsmanlike behaviour. Brian Barnhart, IndyCar president of competition, had cautioned drivers before the race began not to take extreme measure to block a competitor from making a pass and to be aware of their lines. He said that this rule was designed to protect drivers, officials and fans.
"Bad things happen when these cars touch and there have been serious incidents with major consequences on temporary circuits throughout Indy car history," he said.
Castroneves had the lead after the restart with three minutes left to go in the race. He looked to be driving in the centre of the track when Power approached on the left to pass on the outside. The two drivers were just about at the place in the track were they would naturally need to drift left in order to take the fastest lane on the 120-degree corner. When Castroneves sensed Power trying to pass he moved his car about a foot to the left- though he denied doing so – a move forcing Power to try and drive around him but by then Castroneves was able to squeeze him out as they exited the corner.
Castroneves is not unfamiliar with being penalized for unruly behaviour. In 2008 he was ordered to cede the race at the Detroit Grand Prix after blocking Justin Wilson from passing. He was the first driver to receive a severe punishment for blocking a pass back. With this latest action, Castroneves continues his reputation most notorious blocker in the entire IndyCar series.
Tags: