Kurt Busch Suspension Lifted by NASCAR: Latest Details, Comments, Reaction

NASCAR announced the indefinite suspension of driver Kurt Busch has been lifted and he's eligible to race this weekend at Phoenix International Raceway. He was previously suspended during a recent domestic violence investigation.     

Busch has been placed on indefinite probation and must follow all requirements put forth by NASCAR or a judge to remain active, according to a release posted on the governing body's official site. The violations listed are actions detrimental to stock car racing as well as a behavioral penalty.

Stewart-Haas Racing issued a statement following the news:

Chevrolet also announced that it has lifted its suspension of Busch, via Jeff Gluck of USA Today.

Busch commented on the news, via Gluck:

NASCAR stated that the driver of the No. 41 car will be eligible for the Chase for the NASCAR Sprint Cup, with the requirement to compete in all races being waived. Steve O'Donnell, the executive vice president of racing operations for NASCAR, released a statement on the situation:

"

As we stated last week, the elimination of the possibility of criminal charges removed a significant impediment to Kurt Busch's return to full status as a NASCAR member. We therefore have decided to move him to indefinite probation and waive the Chase requirement. He has fully complied with our reinstatement program during his suspension and the health care expert who conducted his evaluation recommended his immediate return.

We have made it very clear to Kurt Busch our expectations for him moving forward, which includes participation in a treatment program and full compliance with all judicial requirements as a result of his off-track behavior.

"

Jim Utter of The Charlotte Observer provided further details:

Busch's former girlfriend, Patricia Driscoll, provided a statement on Busch's suspension being lifted, per Dustin Long of NASCAR Talk:

"

Even though Kurt remains on indefinite probation under this decision, I’m deeply concerned about the message NASCAR is sending by letting him compete for the championship after he was found by a judge to have committed an act of domestic violence. But I am gratified, at least, that NASCAR’s decision comes with the mandatory condition that he follow through on the treatment he so clearly needs.

My work with the Armed Forces Foundation on veteran treatment courts has made me a strong believer in the rehabilitation process. But it has also taught me that rehabilitation takes time and can only come after you’ve taken full responsibility for your actions.

Though this continues to be a difficult time for me, I remain committed to standing up for my integrity and seeking full justice.

"

Last week, Bob Pockrass of ESPN reported Busch wasn't going to face charges for the alleged assault of Driscoll last September. He included a statement from the driver after the decision was announced:

"

I am grateful that the prosecutors in Delaware listened, carefully considered the evidence, and after a thorough investigation decided to not file criminal charges against me. I wish to thank my family, friends, fans, and race team who stood by me throughout this nightmare with their unwavering support.

Thanks also goes to my legal team for making sure that the truth got out and was fully provided to the prosecutors. As I have said from the beginning, I did not commit domestic abuse. I look forward to being back in racing as soon as possible and moving on with my life.

"

The NASCAR release stated Busch successfully completed all of the terms in his reinstatement program and received clearance from a behavioral health care expert. It's noted he will still go through "additional steps to address the behavior for which he was penalized."

Otherwise, he's free to return to the track this weekend. He ended up missing three races (Daytona, Atlanta and Las Vegas) as a result of the suspension. He obviously has some ground to make up without any points.  

Busch has one win in 24 career races at Phoenix International Raceway.