NASCAR Expels 2 Crew Members

Chip Ganassi Racing crew chief Brian Pattie and team tyre specialist Brandon Stafford were escorted out of the speedway before yesterday's Food City 250.

NASCAR could announce further penalties for the pair this week, after the original tyres were confiscated. The team had to buy new tyres for the event and Sorenson, currently third in the Busch series standings, was not allowed to make a qualifying attempt. After starting at the back of the grid he eventually finished 11th. Nextel Cup title contender Ryan Newman won the race.

Sorenson had hit the wall and wrecked his car during practice, but NASCAR officials said this had nothing to do with the penalty.

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

"There is potential to pick up some speed when the tyres are altered. The regulations are that there are no substances to be on the tires."