Robby Gordon Apologizes for N.H. Accident

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Posted 5:56AM on Tuesday, September 21, 2004

WELCOME, N.C. - Robby Gordon apologized Monday for intentionally causing an accident at New Hampshire International Speedway that involved championship contenders Tony Stewart and Jeremy Mayfield. Gordon was angered 17 laps into Sunday's race when Greg Biffle caused him to spin. After radioing to his crew that he would retaliate, he made good on the threat by intentionally wrecking Biffle later in the race. Stewart and Mayfield could not avoid the accident, and their cars were both severely damaged. Mayfield finished 35th, Stewart was 39th, and neither will likely be able to overcome their resulting point deficits in the final nine races of NASCAR's playoff system. "First and foremost, I feel terrible for Jeremy Mayfield, Tony Stewart, their teams, sponsors and car owners Joe Gibbs and Ray Evernham," Gordon said. "I allowed my frustration with (Biffle) to affect two other teams, both of which have great shots to win a championship, and for that I am sorry." Gordon admitted when he wrecked Biffle he was "trying to even the score." He also apologized for an obscene gesture he made after the race as reporters tried to interview him. Gordon said the gesture was directed at one reporter in particular. "That, too, was poor judgment and, in hindsight, I should have just walked away," he said. "So I also apologize to any media members and bystanders I offended. It was a bad day that just seemed to get worse and worse." It also could ultimately cost Gordon his job with Richard Childress Racing. His security as driver of the No. 31 Chevrolet was already shaky, and Sunday's actions could lead to his dismissal. Childress has refused to comment on Gordon's status.