Brad Keselowski, Tony Stewart Fined by NASCAR: Latest Details and Reaction

Updates from Friday, Oct. 17

Jeff Gluck of USA Today has Matt Kenseth's thoughts on last week's incident:

Jim Utter of the Charlotte Observer and Dustin Long of the Motor Racing Network have more from Kenseth:

Original Text

Following post-race incidents that occurred in the Bank of America 500 on Saturday night, Brad Keselowski and Tony Stewart were penalized for their actions.   

An official NASCAR release noted the two drivers will face a four-race probation after the Charlotte race. Keselowski was also fined $50,000, while Stewart was handed down a $25,000 fine for backing into the driver in pit lane.

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Jim Utter of The Charlotte Observer provided a further update regarding both drivers:

NASCAR senior vice president Robin Pemberton commented on the fines and probation handed down, per the report:

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These penalties are about maintaining a safe environment following the race. We knew that the new Chase format was likely going to raise the intensity level and we want our drivers to continue to be themselves. However, the safety of our drivers, crew members, officials, and workers is paramount and we will react when that safety could be compromised.

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Darrell Waltrip of Fox provided his take on the penalties for the two drivers:

One interesting note is that neither Matt Kenseth nor Denny Hamlin was penalized for his actions following the race. Both Kenseth and Hamlin confronted Keselowski, but neither will face the same penalties for his involvement.   

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Jeff Gluck of USA Today and Bob Pockrass provide their analysis of neither Joe Gibbs Racing driver being fined:

Meanwhile, ESPN's Marty Smith shared his take on Stewart's penalty:

Keselowski will be on probation following his actions but did not have any points taken away. Currently 10th in the Chase standings and 19 points behind Kasey Kahne for eighth, that would have been devastating for his chances.

As for Stewart, the embattled driver is simply racing to play spoiler in the Chase at this point. He is outside of the postseason, but he still has a lot to hope for with Kevin Harvick, who drives for Stewart-Haas Racing, still in the running.

Neither will be looking to make any waves this weekend while serving his probation, but Talladega will still be an intriguing race. With Keselowski likely needing a win to secure a spot in the Eliminator Round, the pressure will certainly be on him to perform.

Follow @RCorySmith on Twitter.