Earnhardt docked 100 points, crew chief fined, suspended

CHARLOTTE (AP) — Dale Earnhardt Junior has been docked 100 points and his crew chief fined and suspended for six races for an illegal part at Darlington Raceway.

The penalty is considered a significant setback in his team's bid to win a Cup title before Earnhardt leaves after the season. The team was cited for illegal modifications to the rear wing on Earnhardt's Car of Tomorrow.

Dale Earnhardt Incorporated team president Max Siegel says there will be an appeal. he says the team isn't disputing the ruling, but instead appealing the severity of the penalty.

Crew chief Tony Eury Junior, who is also Earnhardt's cousin, is expected to work Saturday night's All-Star race because suspensions do not begin until the appeals process is heard. Eury was fined $100,000.

Earnhardt announced last week he will his late father's company.

(Copyright 2007 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)