REPORT: Kurt Busch Fired at Penske

Kurt Busch is out as driver for the No.22 Penske Racing Shell Dodge.  According to multiple sources, Busch’s firing will be announced on Monday.  It is the second time Busch has lost his job for off-track difficulties.  In November, Busch was fired from Roush-Fenway Racing for being charged with criminal recklessness in Avondale, Arizona for what police described as an alcohol related event.  Busch has already taken a ride for 2006 with Penske at the time.

It was only a week ago that NASCAR fined Busch $50,000 for use of an obscene gesture and a profanity-laced tirade with a television crew captured by a private camera.  The video was posted on You Tube, and was distributed in many places on the internet.  The tirade was directed as ESPN pit reporter, Dr. Jerry Punch when Busch’s car developed transmission trouble and became the first car out of the race,

Penske spokesman, Jonathan Gibson was asked to confirm the firing, but refused comment.

With only David Ragan, Brian Vickers, and David Reutimann being available among top drivers, the driver pool is limited for Penske.  The situation is even worse for Busch.  At a time that teams are cutting back, there are very few decent rides available this late in the season.