NASCAR has launched an immediate investigation after a noose was found in the garage stall of Richard Petty Motorsport driver Bubba Wallace.
Wallace, the Cup Series’ only black representative, has been a prominent voice in the recent Black Lives Matter protest movement.
NASCAR, which has recently banned the Confederate flag from its events, was at Alabama’s Talladega Speedway on Sunday for the Geico 500, now moved to Monday due to weather.
“Late this [Sunday] afternoon, NASCAR was made aware that a noose was found in the garage stall of the 43 team,” it said in a statement.
“We are angry and outraged, and cannot state strongly enough how seriously we take this heinous act.
“We have launched an immediate investigation, and will do everything we can to identify the person(s) responsible and eliminate them from the sport.
“As we have stated unequivocally, there is no place for racism in NASCAR, and this act only strengthens our resolve to make the sport open and welcoming to all.”
Wallace was left “incredibly saddened” by the “despicable act of racism.”
“It serves as a painful reminder of how much further we have to go as a society and how persistent we must be in the fight against racism,” Wallace wrote on Twitter.
“Over the last several weeks, I have been overwhelmed by the support from people across the NASCAR industry, including other drivers and team members in the garage.
“Together, our sport has made a commitment to driving real change and championing a community that is accepting and welcoming of everyone.
“Nothing is more important and we will not be deterred by the reprehensible actions of those who seek to spread hate.
“As my mother told me today, “they are just trying to scare you.” This will not break me, I will not give in nor will I back down. I will continue to proudly stand for what I believe in.”
