By Caleb Whisler, Staff Writer
The National Motorsports Appeals Panel has upheld the L1 penalty assessed to Ben Rhodes and the No. 41 team ThorSport Racing in the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series at Daytona.
The No. 41 truck was found in violation of section 20.17.3.2.2.2 of the NASCAR rule book for failing post-race height requirements.
As a result, crew chief, Eddie Troconis, has been fined $5,000 and suspended from one Truck series championship points event. Thorsport Racing and Ben Rhodes were assessed with the loss of 10 championship points.
Kickin’ The Tires first reported that ThorSport would appeal the penalty assessed by NASCAR by bringing the truck to the appeal. At the time, David Pepper, general manager, felt the organization had a “good shot” at a successful argument.
When asked about the penalty, a representative from the organization told Kickin’ The Tires that they have “no comment” on the upheld penalty.
The appeals panel consisted of Mr. Dixon Johnston, Mr. Bill Mullis and Ms. Cathy Rice. ThorSport Racing will have the right to appeal the decision of the panel to the National Motorsports Final Appeals Officer in accordance with section 15 of the rule book.