Hmiel Suspended Idefinitely

Officials of NASCAR have suspended driver Shane Hmiel indefinitely pursuant to sections 12-4-A: Actions detrimental to stock car racing; and 12-4-E: Violation of the NASCAR Substance Abuse Policy as set forth in the 2003 NASCAR rule book.

The indefinite suspension will remain in effect until Hmiel meets the terms and conditions as set forth by NASCAR for future reinstatement. To that end, NASCAR will require Hmiel to attend counseling and undergo periodic random testing.

"NASCAR has a zero tolerance for any type of behavior in violation of our Substance Abuse Policy," said NASCAR President Mike Helton. "While our primary responsibility is the safety of our drivers and our fans, we also have a moral responsibility to protect the integrity of our sport."

To emphasize the critical importance of a substance-free sport, NASCAR, in 1988, created its Substance Abuse Policy. The policy provides for testing under reasonable suspicion, an approach that is well suited to NASCAR because of the close and continuing contact between our officials and our competitors.

Hmiel currently ranks eighth in the NASCAR Busch Series point standings. He has four top-five finishes in 26 starts this season.