“I want to first apologize to David Malukas. I recently went on a live stream with some friends and made some careless comments.”
Daniel Dye has been indefinitely suspended by NASCAR. The penalty comes after the driver made comments on social media.
Watch the video of the comments he made below.
The 22-year-old signed to drive for AM Racing in the 2026 season in the NASCAR O’Reilly Series. He also runs for full-time for Kaulig Racing in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series.
Since NASCAR issued the penalty on Tuesday, Dye has issued an apology…
Daniel Dye issues an apology
“I want to first apologize to David Malukas,” Dye opened in his statement.
“I recently went on a live stream with some friends and made some careless comments. I chose my words poorly, and I understand why it upset people. I’m sorry to anyone who was offended. That’s not how I want to represent myself.”
“I have some close friends in the LGBTQ+ community who I would never want to feel less of themselves because of what I said, and that’s exactly why I should hold myself to a higher standard. In talking with them, I realize that a true friend would know better than to act the way I did and for that I need to be a better friend. What I said doesn’t reflect how I feel about them or anyone else.”
“I didn’t think enough before I spoke, and I in no way meant any harm. I know that intention does not erase impact and I need to do better.”
“I’m taking this seriously and working on being more aware and respectful moving forward. I’m sorry to everyone I let down. I am committed to learning from this and better understanding that the impact that my decisions can have on others. That includes educating myself, listening to those affected, and taking meaningful steps to ensure my actions reflect respect and inclusivity going forward.”
“I know I’ve got a platform and a responsibility, and I need to use it better.”
Kaulig Racing comments
Dye has also been by his team. They issued the following statement
“Kaulig Racing has indefinitely suspended driver Daniel Dye, effective immediately, after becoming aware today of comments he made on social media.”
NASCAR Penalty Report
Member: Daniel Dye
Date: March 17th, 2026
Penalty Level: Behavioral
Infraction: (Sections 4.3.C) NASCAR Member Conduct Guidelines
Penalty: Indefinite suspension from NASCAR; Must complete sensitivity training
Video of what Daniel Dye said
David Malukas got more talent on his pinky than Daniel Dye ever will have in his life.
Malukas will be an IndyCar winner but Dye will only be known for grinding his balls on someone’s face 臘♂️ pic.twitter.com/XoarXLSaep
— Jett Kraus (@JettMDK) March 17, 2026
Links
Context:
Daniel Dye's suspension highlights the importance of accountability in sports.
Context:
This incident underscores the need for sensitivity and respect in public discourse.
Context:
NASCAR has been increasingly focused on promoting inclusivity among its drivers and fans.
