NASCAR announced indefinite suspensions for team owner Chad Bryant and crew member Steve Civatarese following an altercation with driver Corey Heim at Martinsville Speedway on September 27, 2026. The penalties, issued after days of deliberation, also include probation periods, fines, and mandatory anger management for Bryant.
Core penalties and disciplinary actions:
- Chad Bryant (team owner): Indefinite suspension; $2,000 fine; one-year probation; mandatory NASCAR-approved anger management program.
- Steve Civatarese (crew member): Indefinite suspension; $1,000 fine.
- Ryden Lapcevich (crew member): $500 fine; probation through December 31, 2027.
- Four additional crew members: Fines and probation for participation in a separate altercation following the second heat race.
The suspensions apply to all NASCAR events, including the 2027 ValleyStar Credit Union 300 at Martinsville Speedway. NASCAR cited violations of Sections 12-6.1C and 12-6.1C2 of the NASCAR Rule Book, which address member-to-member confrontations involving physical violence.
Context of the incident:
The altercation occurred near a concession stand at Martinsville Speedway shortly after the conclusion of the ValleyStar Credit Union 300. Video footage of the confrontation, widely circulated online, shows multiple individuals involved in the incident. NASCAR released its own video of the altercation, prompting public scrutiny and calls for accountability.
Reactions from stakeholders:
NASCAR’s disciplinary actions follow criticism from fans and drivers, including Denny Hamlin, co-owner of 23XI Racing, Heim’s future team. Hamlin, speaking on his podcast Actions Detrimental, described Bryant and his team as “cowards” and condemned the attack. Hamlin’s remarks were widely reported but not formally addressed by NASCAR in its disciplinary statement.
NASCAR’s rationale:
In a statement, NASCAR emphasized its commitment to maintaining safety and sportsmanship within the sport. The governing body noted that the severity of the penalties reflects the seriousness of the violations and the need to deter future incidents. The suspensions and fines were imposed after a review of the incident and consultations with affected parties.
Broader implications:
The penalties mark one of the most severe disciplinary actions taken by NASCAR for an incident at the late-model level, a tier typically subject to less stringent oversight. Analysts and insiders have noted the unusual nature of NASCAR’s involvement in a late-model race, suggesting the league’s response may set a precedent for future altercations at lower-tier events.
The suspensions take effect immediately, and the individuals involved have the opportunity to appeal the decisions through NASCAR’s established grievance process.