As per TMZ Sports reports, screenshots surfaced on Saturday displaying Gragson’s approval of an Instagram post featuring a meme that ridiculed George Floyd, an African American man tragically killed by police officer Derek Chauvin in Minneapolis back in 2020.
Although NASCAR did not explicitly state it, it is believed that the act of liking the post triggered the suspension. Gragson subsequently expressed regret for his “inattentiveness and behavior on social media.”
Legacy Motor Club made an announcement stating that Gragson would be excluded from piloting the No. 42 Chevrolet is poised to grace the forthcoming NASCAR Cup Series FireKeepers Casino 400 at the renowned Michigan International Speedway this Sunday.
Stepping in for Gragson on Sunday will be Josh Berry, who has taken part in eight Cup Series races this season as a stand-in for Hendrick Motorsports. Berry, a consistent participant in the Xfinity Series, secured fourth place in the points rankings for NASCAR’s No. 2 series last season, and he currently holds the fifth position this season.
Gragson, aged 25, is currently immersed in his inaugural full-time Cup Series campaign after participating in 18 Cup Series races in the previous season.
Throughout this season, Gragson has competed in 21 Cup Series races, achieving his highest placement with a 12th position finish at Atlanta in March. He currently occupies the 33rd place in the points rankings.
Gragson’s most notable accomplishments have unfolded in the Xfinity Series, boasting a tally of 13 victories over his career. His track record includes an eighth-place finish in points during 2019, fifth place in 2020, third place in 2021, and a runner-up position in 2022.