Kurt Busch fined for behavior at Homestead

NASCAR announced on Friday that Sprint Cup Series driver Kurt Busch has been fined $50,000 for his behavior last Sunday during the Ford 400 season-finale at Homestead-Miami Speedway.

Busch was cited for violation section 12-1 (actions detrimental to stock car racing -- inappropriate hand gesture, abusive language) of the 2011 rule book.

While being shown driving his No. 22 car to the garage early in the race because of a mechanical issue, Busch could be seen displaying an offensive gesture on live television. He then compounded the problem by using language NASCAR deemed verbally abusive when interviewed by ESPN broadcaster Jerry Punch.

“Kurt Busch showed disrespect toward a media member, an incident that followed similar inappropriate media confrontations earlier in the season,” a statement from NASCAR said.

Early in the week, Penske Racing issued a written statement, apologizing for its driver’s behavior.

“These actions do not represent Penske Racing and are inconsistent with the company’s standards for behavior, respect for others and professionalism,” the Penske statement read.

Statements of apology also came from Busch, himself, and sponsor, Shell/Pennzoil.

Steve Addington, Busch’s crew chief during the 2011 season, quit the team soon after Sunday’s incidents.

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Photo of Kurt Busch courtesy of NASCAR Media