Harvick appeal rejected

Shane Wilson, crew chief for Harvick, was fined $15,000 and banned for six races following aerodynamic modifications discovered during post-qualifying inspection at Daytona earlier this month.

Both car owner Richard Childress and driver Kevin Harvick lost 50 points in their respective championships.

Harvick finished third in the race at Daytona but Wilson was ejected immediately and has still been serving the ban while the appeal process has been ongoing.

RCR did not appeal the actual legality of their car, but rather the severity of the penalties that were awarded.

A National Stock Car Racing Commission Statement said: "In deciding the appeal, the Commission considered several factors. The infractions were intentional and premeditated.

"The crew chief was already on probation, and the car owner and driver had each been penalised 25 championship points earlier in the season, for a different rules violation of an aerodynamic nature (car too low).

"The Commission notes that penalties are not predetermined, but are based on the nature, extent and circumstances of specific violations.

"Similarly, if NASCAR determines that the general range or relative levels of penalties are no longer having the desired effect as a deterrent, infractions are proliferating, and/or a team has had multiple violations, then NASCAR can and should adjust penalty levels accordingly.

"The Commission finds that penalties are correct for the infractions and circumstances in this case."

Harvick still leads the Busch Series this season, and has a 348-point advantage over Carl Edwards.