4/24/08 - As posted on Drag Race Central
CHICAGO -- This past week has been very trying for me, my family, my sponsors and my seven Don Schumacher Racing NHRA drag-racing teams. Since I began to build my operation to include a number of teams in 2001, I have strived to live up to my personal standards, those of the sponsors who so wholeheartedly support my efforts, the outstanding group of drivers and crew chiefs I have been fortunate to have join my racing family, and the incredibly talented medley of team employees.
It is my opinion and belief that the merits of the process begun by the NHRA to fine DSR an unprecedented $100,000 for an alleged infraction of our team possessing nitromethane in its pit area during a national event should not be argued in the media. I believe that a series of errors occurred at the SummitRacing.com NHRA Nationals in Las Vegas, which led the NHRA to impose the fine.
I would like to extend my apologies to all the DSR sponsors and everyone involved in this situation on behalf of DSR for what appears to me to be a misunderstanding. I regret any focus that may have been put on any of our supporters unnecessarily.
I would never do anything that could be construed as going against the NHRA rules. I believe I have acted properly, with integrity, and this is a matter that is being dealt with between Don Schumacher Racing and the NHRA. I have processed an appeal to the NHRA which will be heard this week pursuant to NHRA's dispute resolution procedures.
Of utmost importance to me is that I explain to the media, fans and our longtime supporters that only I, as team owner, am involved in this situation. None of the seven DSR teams, their sponsors, crew chiefs, drivers or team employees should be singled out as having any responsibility in this situation.
Don Schumacher