Earnhardt Jr. Penalty Stands

The National Stock Car Racing Commission, an ad-hoc appeals panel called by NASCAR to review penalty cases, has upheld NASCAR's rulings following Dale Earnhardt Jr.'s use of a prohibited word on live television after his victory at Talladega two weeks ago.

NASCAR's penalties will stand as pronounced. Earnhardt was fined $10,000 for uttering the word off-hand in a quick mike-spot after the race with interviewer Matt Yocum. More important, NASCAR deducted 25 points from his season total, a correction which has become far more effective than money fines in recent years.

NASCAR also deducted 25 owner points from the team.