Teams fined as result of Loudon infractions

NASCAR handed down penalties and fines to four Nextel Cup series teams Monday after infractions at New Hampshire International Raceway. Officials expressed concern Sunday night over several on track retaliations that took place throughout the course of the Sylvania 300.

In response, Kasey Kahne driver of the No. 9 Dodge was fined $25,000 and docked 25 driver's points, car owner Ray Evernham also lost 25 owner points. Kahne was involved in an on track dispute with Kyle Busch. During that altercation, Kahne turned his heavily damaged car into Busch's Chevy in an act of retribution during a caution flag.

"There have been a growing number of incidents lately where drivers have taken matters into their own hands. Such unsafe and inappropriate behavior has to stop," said NASCAR President Mike Helton. "NASCAR will use whatever means necessary to stop it."

Additionally, Robby Gordon driver of the No. 7 Chevrolet was fined $25,000 and docked 25 driver and owner points. Gordon was punished for throwing his helmet at Michael Waltrip's No. 15 Chevrolet under caution after the two were involved in a skirmish.

Gordon was fined an additional $10,000 for using profanity on live television.

Both drivers were placed on probation until the end of the year. Waltrip was fined $10,000 and lost 25 driver points; his car owner Teresa Earnhardt looses 25 owner points. Waltrip was penalized for using an inappropriate gesture during the television broadcast.

Notably, Brian Vickers was also fined but not for any on track improprieties. His car failed pre-qualifying inspection and was confiscated by NASCAR. Vickers' crew chief, Lance McGrew was fined $10,000 for inappropriate parts and/or components.

Vickers will loose 25 driver points and car owner Mary Hendrick will loose 25 owner points.

The fines for Kahne, Gordon and Waltrip are considered light especially after NASCAR eluded on Sunday night at NHIS that suspensions were likely to be expected. Earlier this season, Dale Jarrett received just a two lap penalty for seeking revenge on Ryan Newman during an event at Bristol. He was not fined or docked points.

In 2002, NASCAR parked Kevin Harvick for wrecking Coy Gibbs because NASCAR felt he did it intentionally to gain payback.