Rudd squares off with crew member after race

Chevy Monte Carlo 400 Results | Winston Cup Standings

RICHMOND, Va. -- What would a Saturday night short-track race be without a tussle --- but between a driver and his crew member?

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Such was the case between Ricky Rudd and a crew member for the No. 28 Ford following the Chevrolet Monte Carlo 400 at Richmond International Raceway.

According to Steve Post, public relations representative for the team, there was a confrontation after the race that erupted over something had Rudd said earlier in the week. The crew member, who was not named, took exception to it and confronted Rudd, who had just finished seventh.

"The confrontation between the crew member and driver involved a thrown punch and water bottle tossed back in retaliation," Post said. "The crew member was the one who punched, Rudd tossed the water bottle.

"Both parties involved were separated. This is an internal matter and Robert Yates Racing will handle it on their own."

First reports were that a fan was involved in the fracas. This comes on the heels of a fan accusing driver Tony Stewart of simple assault after the night race in Bristol last month.

"Contrary to some reports you may have heard, there were no fans involved," Post stated. "This was strictly an internal matter of Robert Yates Racing."

Rudd has already announced he will be leaving RYR at the end of the season to join Wood Brothers Racing in its No. 21 Ford.