NASCAR Issues Ruling on Bubba Wallace’s Lawsuit Against Kyle Larson Over ‘The Kaepernick of NASCAR’ Remark
NASCAR has delivered a landmark ruling on Bubba Wallace’s lawsuit against Kyle Larson, addressing allegations of racial discrimination stemming from Larson’s controversial “The Kaepernick of NASCAR” comment made during a post-race interview on July 5 at Sonoma Raceway. The motorsport governing body announced its decision this afternoon, concluding a month-long review, and while it dismissed the formal lawsuit, it imposed a $50,000 fine on Larson and mandated sensitivity training. The ruling has sent shockwaves through the racing community, igniting debates about racial sensitivity in the sport as fans and drivers await Larson’s response, keeping the saga at the forefront of NASCAR discourse.
Wallace, the only full-time African American driver in the Cup Series, filed the petition on June 15, claiming Larson’s remark—comparing him to Colin Kaepernick, the NFL quarterback known for kneeling during the national anthem to protest racial injustice—was a racially charged jab intended to undermine his advocacy for diversity in NASCAR. The comment followed Wallace’s recent critique of the white flag’s potential racial connotations, a stance Larson dismissed as overreach. Wallace’s filing included witness accounts and social media backlash, arguing the statement caused emotional distress and damaged his reputation, especially given Larson’s 2020 racial slur incident that led to his suspension.
NASCAR’s ruling, detailed in a statement from CEO Jim France, acknowledged the remark’s potential to offend but found insufficient evidence of intentional discrimination to uphold a full lawsuit. Instead, the organization labeled it a “misjudged jest” that violated its code of conduct, citing Larson’s history and the context of Wallace’s activism. The $50,000 fine, to be donated to the NASCAR Diversity Foundation, and the mandatory training reflect a middle ground, aiming to address the issue without derailing Larson’s season—he currently leads the standings by 12 points over William Byron. Wallace expressed mixed feelings, saying, “It’s a step, but not justice,” hinting at possible further action.
The decision has split opinions. Some fans on social platforms praise NASCAR’s attempt to balance discipline with fairness, with posts like “Good call, keeps the focus on racing,” while others decry it as lenient, arguing, “Larson got off easy again.” Larson’s 2020 firing by Chip Ganassi Racing for using a racial slur, followed by his reinstatement after sensitivity training, adds weight to the debate, with critics questioning whether his past leniency influenced the ruling. Wallace, who once supported Larson’s second chance, now faces scrutiny for escalating the issue, though his supporters highlight his role as a trailblazer in a sport with a complex racial history.
As the New Hampshire race approaches on July 13-14, the ruling’s impact looms large. Will Larson appeal, or will the fine and training reshape his public image? For Wallace, the outcome underscores the challenges of advocating change in NASCAR, where diversity remains a work in progress. The paddock watches closely, captivated by a story that tests the sport’s commitment to inclusivity and leaves fans debating the line between free speech and accountability in the high-stakes world of stock car racing.
