Michael Waltrip was docked 25 driver points and fined $10,000 for allegedly using an "inappropriate gesture" on TV. Credit: Autostock

DEI appealing penalties stemming from Loudon

MOORESVILLE, N.C. -- Dale Earnhardt Inc. will appeal the points and monetary fines against Michael Waltrip and Teresa Earnhardt stemming from last week's race at New Hampshire International Speedway.

Waltrip, driver of the No. 15 Chevrolet, was docked 25 driver points and fined $10,000 for allegedly using an "inappropriate gesture during a televised broadcast."

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Earnhardt, CEO and President of DEI, also was docked 25 owner points.

"In looking at the tape, we don't see anywhere during the entire incident where Michael did what he is accused of doing," said Richie Gilmore, Vice President of Motorsports for DEI.

The penalties were a result of an on-track incident between Waltrip and Robby Gordon. The two were battling for fourth place on Lap 191 when they tangled in Turn 2, sending Gordon hard into the wall.

Gordon got out his car and hurled his helmet at Waltrip's car, then proceeded to call Waltrip a profane word in an ensuing TV interview.

ALSO Marty Smith says last weekend's madness in Loudon hasn't changed his opinion about on-track retaliation. Settling it on the track is fine, he says, as long as drivers know there will be consequences.  •   Complete story, click here

Waltrip's in-car camera caught him sticking his hand out the window and make a gesture, then a wave.

Gordon was docked 25 points and fined $25,000 for attempting to hit another competitor's car during a caution period, and then throwing his helmet at another competitor's car. In addition, car owner James Smith was docked 25 owner points.

He also received a 25-point penalty and was fined $10,000 for use of improper language during a television interview during the race. Gordon has been placed on probation for the remainder of the year.

Both Gordon and Waltrip were required to visit with NASCAR after the race.