No. 7 team penalized, fined for Daytona infractions

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. -- NASCAR has issued penalties and fines to the No. 7 team that competes in the NASCAR Nextel Cup Series, as a result of rule infractions found last week at Daytona International Speedway.

The No. 7 Ford, driven by Robby Gordon, was found to be in violation of Sections 12-4-A (actions detrimental to stock car racing); 12-4-Q (car, car parts, components and/or equipment used do not conform to NASCAR rules); and 20-6.7C (8) (unapproved camera shell) of the 2007 NASCAR rule book. The violations were found during opening day inspection on July 5.

Gordon has been penalized 25 championship driver and 25 championship owner points. Crew chief Gene Nead has been fined $25,000 and placed on NASCAR probation until Dec. 31.

Gordon remains 24th in the standings with the penalty, but instead of owning sole possession of the position he is now tied with David Stremme with 1,620 points, 1,128 behind leader Jeff Gordon.