Jimmie Johnson's Crew May Face Suspension After Modifications Found at Daytona

Jimmie Johnson and his crew have a lot of explaining to do. There is the possibility Johnson's team faces suspension following reports modifications were found on the rear quarter panel of Johnson's No. 48 car. 

ESPN reports NASCAR has since confiscated the C-posts from the car and Sprint Cup Series director John Darby issued that the modifications were major violations. 

The confiscation takes place right before the celebration of the Budweiser Shootout, although it's important to note that Johnson still has time to qualify for the Daytona 500 which is over a week away. 

What It Means

As stated in the report, Darby has issued that changes made to the back of the car, specifically the part where the pillars come down from the roof to the quarter panel, were major violations. 

He sees suspensions for the team as a very real possibility. As for Johnson, he should be fine and can still qualify for the all-important Daytona 500 believe it or not. Darby told ESPN: 

"

Suspensions are not out of the realm of possibility. The team will be allowed to fix the car. 

"

That should come as great news for Johnson as this is no doubt the worst possible way to start the season. 

Crew chief Chad Knaus was suspended back in 2006 for trying to get a competitive advantage out of his car. 

It's important to note that a lot of teams try to push the edge of what is proper with templates. You are always trying to get the most out of the car, and Johnson's crew just went too far. 

What's Next? 

This is simple, and that's get the car ready for the Daytona 500. Knaus didn't sound all that worried about the immediate future when he stated: Via ESPN.

"

They found some things they didn't like and they asked us to remove them. We'll get the car fixed up and ready to qualify.

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The report issued that suspension could come as early as next week while it was far more likely that sanctions would occur after the start of the season at Daytona. 

For now, Johnson seems to be on track for the "Great American Race," despite the team getting one big shakeup just days before. 

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