This story has been updated to include statements from both Brian France and NASCAR on France’s indefinite leave of absence.
Brian France will take an indefinite leave of absence, after he was arrested for drunk driving and illegal possession of Oxycodone, according to Sag Harbor Village Police. Jim France will take over as the interim Chairman and CEO of NASCAR.
NASCAR issued the following statement on the matter: “Brian France has taken an indefinite leave of absence from NASCAR as chairman and chief executive officer. Effective immediately, NASCAR Vice Chairman and Executive Vice President Jim France has assumed the role of interim chairman and chief executive officer.”
Jim France has been involved with NASCAR and International Speedway Corporation since 1959. While serving as NASCAR’s vice chairman and executive vice president, he’s largely overseen the sports car operations of NASCAR.
Brian France also released the following statement: “I apologize to our fans, our industry and my family for the impact of my actions last night. Effective immediately, I will be taking an indefinite leave of absence from my position to focus on my personal affairs.”
France was pulled over last night in Suffolk County after he failed to stop at a stop sign on Main Street. During the traffic stop, the officer suspected he was intoxicated and conducted a field sobriety test, which he failed. Upon further inspection, he was found in criminal possession of a controlled substance.
He was arrested and held overnight and was released this morning from the custody of the Sag Harbor Village Justice Court.
NASCAR issued the following statement on France’s arrest: “We are aware of an incident that occurred last night and are in the process of gathering information. We take this as a serious matter and will issue a statement after we have all of the facts.”
France has operated as the Chairman and CEO of NASCAR since 2003.
Brian France Sag Harbor, New York official arrest release. pic.twitter.com/sEbavAvzMe
— Matt Weaver (@MattWeaverAW) August 6, 2018