NASCAR: Chevrolet’s relationship with Kyle Larson suspended indefinitely
By Asher Fair
The relationship between Chevrolet, Chip Ganassi Racing’s NASCAR Cup Series manufacturer, and Kyle Larson has been suspended indefinitely.
Things continue to get worse and worse for Chip Ganassi Racing NASCAR Cup Series driver Kyle Larson after he used the N-word during a virtual race at Autodromo Nazionale Monza on Sunday night.
While the race was being streamed live on Twitch, Larson appeared to lose communication with his spotter, which led to him saying “Hey N*****” over his headset in an attempt to get his attention.
Chip Ganassi Racing took action first, suspending the 27-year-old Elk Grove, California native without pay.
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NASCAR then stepped in and suspended him indefinitely, requiring, at the very least, that he completes sensitivity training before returning. He issued an apology, but he was then suspended indefinitely from iRacing as well.
Primary sponsors Credit One Bank and McDonald’s, which have combined to serve as the primary sponsor on his #42 Chevrolet in all four of the races that have been contested so far this season, terminated their deals with him while keeping their deals with Chip Ganassi Racing intact.
The relationship between Chevrolet, Chip Ganassi Racing’s manufacturer, and Larson has been suspended indefinitely as well, according to Fox Sports’ Bob Pockrass.
Chevrolet suspends relationship with Larson. Chevy spokesperson:
— Bob Pockrass (@bobpockrass) April 13, 2020
"Chevrolet has suspended its relationship with Kyle Larson indefinitely, as we do not tolerate this behavior. We will continue to monitor the events surrounding Mr. Larson & are prepared to take additional action."
Unfortunately for Larson, his unacceptable and embarrassing actions have created a very long road ahead for him in terms of getting back to competing at NASCAR’s highest level for any organization. He needs to start rebuilding a lot of bridges that he burnt down in a split second.
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How Kyle Larson’s suspensions will play out remains to be seen due to the unique circumstances with which we are currently dealing. There has not been a real-world NASCAR race since Sunday, March 8 at Phoenix Raceway due to the coronavirus pandemic, and there isn’t scheduled to be another one until Saturday, May 9 at Martinsville Speedway. Even that race date, however, is in doubt.