Brian Pattie (left) will not be on the pit box for Reed Sorenson on Friday. Credit: Autostock

Sorenson's crew chief ejected for tire violation

No. 41 team forbidden from making qualifying attempt

BRISTOL, Tenn. -- Chip Ganassi Racing crew chief Brian Pattie was escorted from the NASCAR Busch Series garage area Friday at Bristol Motor Speedway after NASCAR officials determined the No. 41 team had applied illegal substances to its tires.

Team tire specialist Brandon Stafford was also ejected. Pattie also will not be allowed to serve as crew chief for Friday's Food City 250.

Sorenson wrecked his car in practice early Friday. Credit: Autostock

"There is potential to pick up some speed when the tires are altered," said NASCAR Busch Series director Joe Balash. "The regulations are that there are no substances to be on the tires."

NASCAR confiscated the tires in question and required the team to buy new ones, as well as disallowing driver Reed Sorenson the opportunity to make a qualifying lap. He'll start at the rear of the field in Friday night's Food City 250.

Sorenson, who enters tonight's race third overall in the Busch Series standings, wrecked during practice Friday. Balash said the tire incident was not related to the accident.

"There was nothing that linked the accident and what happened with the tires," Balash said. "An official was doing his job and saw that there was some substances being rubbed into the tire. You're always disappointed when anything like this happens in the garage area."

Balash said any related penalties will be addressed next week.