NASCAR has stated its “anger and outrage” after a noose was left in the garage of black racing driver Bubba Wallace.
The 26-year-old is the only black driver in the American series and has spoken out against racism in support of the Black Lives Matter movement.
Wallace has vowed to keep on fighting racism after the “despicable” actCredit: USA TODAY Sports
A successful campaign to ban the confederate flag from races was led by Alabama-born Wallace, who also raced in a unique BLM livery earlier this month.
On Sunday, NASCAR confirmed a noose had been found in Wallace’s garage and launched an investigation into the “heinous act”.
A statement read: “Late this afternoon, NASCAR was made aware that a noose was found in the garage stall of the 43 team.
“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.”
‘DESPICABLE’
Wallace vowed not to “give in” to those angered by his anti-racism stance after the noose was found at Talladega Superspeedway, where Sunday’s race was postponed due to storms.
He posted on Twitter: “The despicable act of racism and hatred leaves me incredibly saddened and 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.”
He added: “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.”
Outside the Alabama circuit, several drivers displayed the banned confederate flag that is a popular symbol for some in the southern part of the United States – but has historic ties to pro-slavery movements.
The confederate flag was a common sight outside the circuit on SundayCredit: USA TODAY Sports
NASCAR banned the flag from its events, with races currently taking place behind closed doorsCredit: USA TODAY Sports
A plane was also flown over the track bearing the flag and a banner reading: “Defund NASCAR.”
Several sports stars across the US have posted their support for Wallace after the sad episode.
NBA legend LeBron James wrote: “Sickening! Bubba my brother! Know you don’t stand alone! I’m right here with you as well as every other athlete.
“I just want to continue to say how proud I am of you for continuing to take a stand for change here in America and sports! NASCAR I salute you as well!”
NASCAR Ford driver Michael McDowell tweeted: “God help us. The level of evil it takes to do something like this is disgusting. This is enraging and heartbreaking all at the same time.”
Andrew Murstein added his support as co-owner of Richard Petty Motorsports, which Wallace drives for, and said he was: “shocked and saddened.”
“You would like to think that the country has changed for the better in the last 40-plus years. Unfortunately, in many ways it hasn’t.”
Black Nascar driver Bubba Wallace reveals ‘Black Lives Matter’ car after call for ban on Confederate flags at track
Source: Motorsport - thesun.co.uk
