# NASCAR issues suspensions after Martinsville altercation

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/martinsville-speedway-post-race-altercation
> Updated: 2026-09-28T15:00:00.000Z. Sources: 16. Developments: 2.

Following the ValleyStar Credit Union 300 Late Model event at Martinsville Speedway, a physical altercation occurred between drivers Corey Heim and Treyten Lapcevich and their respective teams. The conflict originated from on-track contact during the race, which escalated after the checkered flag when the two drivers collided in turn one, causing significant vehicle damage.

Post-race, Heim was reportedly confronted near an infield hot dog stand by members of the Chad Bryant Racing crew. Video footage captured Heim being punched multiple times and pushed against a menu sign while attempting to reach his hauler. Henry County Sheriff’s Office deputies arrived at the scene to disperse the group and escort Heim from the property.

In response to the violence, NASCAR has issued significant penalties. Team owner Chad Bryant and crew member Steven Civitarese have received indefinite suspensions for member-to-member physical violence. Bryant was also fined $2,000, placed on one-year probation, and barred from the 2027 Martinsville 300, while Civitarese received a $1,000 fine and one-year probation. Additional fines and probation were issued to Ryden Lapcevich, Brad Housewright, Chase Burrow, and several other crew members involved in separate altercations during the event.

Denny Hamlin, co-owner of 23XI Racing, criticized the actions of the crew members, labeling them “cowards” and calling for lengthy suspensions. Treyten Lapcevich also condemned the violence, stating that while he was frustrated by the racing incident, the subsequent attack was wrong and “crossed a line.”

## Timeline

### 2026-09-28: NASCAR suspends team members after Corey Heim assault

NASCAR has indefinitely suspended Chad Bryant and Steven Civitarese following a physical assault on driver Corey Heim at Martinsville Speedway after the ValleyStar Credit Union 300.

13 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/corey-heim-attacked-by-rival-team-members-after-martinsville-speedway-race

### 2026-09-26: Martinsville Speedway hosts post-race brawl during Late Model event

Driver Corey Heim was involved in a post-race physical altercation with Chad Bryant Racing crew members at Martinsville Speedway following an on-track collision with Treyten Lapcevich.

9 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/martinsville-speedway-sets-lineup-for-valleystar-credit-union-300

---
Cite as: NASCAR issues suspensions after Martinsville altercation. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/martinsville-speedway-post-race-altercation