Kyle Larson fired over use of racial slur

NASCAR Cup Series driver Kyle Larson has been fired by Chip Ganassi Racing (CGR) for the use of a racial slur.

Larson came under fire after using a racial slur during the live stream of a virtual race on Monday.

Sponsors had cancelled contracts with Larson, CGR had suspended him, and NASCAR launched an investigation. He was eventually suspended by NASCAR and fired by CGR.

The Ganassi organisation released a statement regarding the issue:

“After much consideration, Chip Ganassi Racing has determined that it will end its relationship with driver Kyle Larson. As we said before, the comments that Kyle made were both offensive and unacceptable especially given the values of our organization.

“As we continued to evaluate the situation with all the relevant parties, it became obvious that this was the only appropriate course of action to take.”

Larson’s replacement for the No. 42 Chevrolet has not yet been announced.

Team Chevy also released a statement regarding the incident:

“As previously stated, Chevrolet does not tolerate the inappropriate behavior exhibited by Kyle Larson. As a result, Chevrolet is immediately terminating its relationship with Mr. Larson.”

Put together by Landon Cassill and Garrett Smithley, an iRacing event named “Monza Madness” saw a variety of professional drivers, personalities and streamers compete on virtual iteration of the treacherous Monza oval course.

During the stream, Larson was conducting a check of his microphone, when he said, “You can’t hear me?” Followed by “Hey, (N-word)”.

Those in the session who heard the slur reacted in shock, with Xfinity driver Anthony Alfredo saying “Kyle, you’re talking to everyone, bud”. This was followed by “Yep, we heard that” and “Yikes”.

Larson issued an apology through his social media channels, acknowledging there was no excuse for the use of the word.