23XI Racing has reversed course on its plan to appeal NASCAR’s penalties for race manipulation after last weekend’s NASCAR Cup Series race at Martinsville Speedway, choosing instead to not appeal, it announced Nov. 6.
The penalties to the No. 23 — including suspensions for Phoenix Raceway, hefty fines and a loss of points — will stand after driver Bubba Wallace slowed, allowing fellow Toyota driver Christopher Bell to pass him on the final lap of the Xfinity 500. After the move, Bell was able to secure a playoff spot.
Bell was eventually given a time penalty for a safety violation on the final lap, putting William Byron back in the playoffs.
Wallace and the team claimed a mechanical issue is what led to the No. 23 falling off the pace.
The team said it disagreed with the penalties but would rather put its focus toward Wallace teammate Tyler Reddick’s championship efforts at Phoenix.
“After internal deliberations, 23XI has decided not to appeal NASCAR’s decision to penalize the No. 23 team,” a statement from the team said. “We disagree with the penalty ruling and strongly believe we did not break any rules at Martinsville. It is our conclusion that it is in our best interests, and those of our team members, partners and fans to fully devote our personnel and resources this week toward the championship and not an appeal.”
Crew chief Bootie Barker — who was set to call his final race for 23XI — spotter Freddie Kraft and 23XI director of competition Dave Rogers will all be suspended for Phoenix. The team was fined $100,000 and docked 50 points in the drivers and owners standings.
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