Helio Castroneves has been fined $60,000 and placed on probation for the rest of the IndyCar season, following his outburst at the end of the race at Edmonton a week ago. He was furious that he had been penalized for blocking Will Power and stripped of victory, and confronted several Indy Racing League officials immediately after the finish – including grabbing one by the collar.
"This sport is so close and competitive that emotions are always on display. However, that does not justify the post-race conduct of Helio toward series officials, said IndyCar CEO Randy Bernard.
"This is a very serious matter and we weighed all options, including suspension. But we felt suspension would hurt the fans more than anyone else. Fans have paid their hard-earned money to watch the best drivers in the world, and many bought their tickets for upcoming events with the expectation of watching Helio.
"He is a great ambassador for this sport and we know his actions after the race in Edmonton are not indicative of his normal behavior."
Castroneves had already apologized for his actions on the evening of the race.