Sam Mayer has been suspended from NASCAR for actions during the cool-down lap at the recent Xfinity Series race at Martinsville Speedway, resulting in him missing this weekend’s event at Phoenix Raceway. This Sam Mayer NASCAR suspension means Ryan Sieg will step in for Haas Factory Racing, which has chosen not to appeal the sanction as the team prepares for their upcoming race.
NASCAR Sanction Sidelines Mayer, Sieg Set to Compete at Phoenix
The penalty issued to Sam Mayer stemmed from conduct that violated Section 4.4.B of the NASCAR Member Code of Conduct, following his involvement in an on-track incident at Martinsville. Specifically, Mayer was found responsible for ramming into Jeb Burton during the cool-down lap, after which Burton spun into the outside wall, and Mayer’s own race came to an abrupt halt as he collided with the wall himself. As a result of the penalty, Mayer’s hopes for the 2025 championship came to an end.
With Mayer sidelined, Haas Factory Racing has confirmed that Ryan Sieg will take over the No. 41 car for the Phoenix event. This marks a milestone for Sieg, who is set to make his 400th career start. The team emphasized its commitment to providing Sieg with a competitive car, aiming for strong results at the season’s end.
Haas Factory Racing Issues Official Statement
In response to the sanction, Haas Factory Racing made a public announcement acknowledging their disappointment but also confirming their decision regarding the appeal.
“Although we are disappointed with the results, Haas Factory Team will not appeal the penalty NASCAR issued to Sam Mayer and the No. 41 team following last weekend’s race at Martinsville Speedway.”
— Haas Factory Racing Statement
“We remain focused on finishing the season out strong at Phoenix Raceway and look forward to contending for a race win with Ryan Sieg at the wheel.”
— Haas Factory Racing Statement
Mayer Evaluates His Clash with Burton
Following the incident and subsequent suspension, Sam Mayer reflected on the escalation with Jeb Burton that led to the disciplinary action. Mayer criticized Burton’s style of racing and expressed his frustration about the outcome.
“It’s a principal thing,” Sam Mayer said in a statement.
“(Burton) is the worst person to race around in the entire garage. He has a reputation for being over his head every single week, and this was a prime example of it.”
— Sam Mayer, Driver
“Thank God I have enough car control where I can hold on to it and not wreck. He has no respect for someone racing for something bigger than he is,”
he added. — Sam Mayer, Driver
These statements underscore a significant conflict and tension between Mayer and Burton, reflecting the pressure and stakes at play as the season draws to a close.
Samu Mayer’s 2024 Season in Review and What Lies Ahead
Despite the setback, Mayer has had a notable season, earning one win, securing thirteen top-five finishes, and collecting eighteen top-10 finishes across thirty-two races. The Franklin, Wisconsin native is currently fifth in the driver standings with 2,204 points.
Looking forward, Mayer is expected to return to the cockpit of the No. 41 car for the 2026 NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series, previously known as the Xfinity Series, when it kicks off at Daytona International Speedway. Attention now shifts to the championship race at Phoenix Raceway on November 1, where the spotlight will be on whether Ryan Sieg can capitalize on his milestone start for Haas Factory Racing. Fans will be able to watch the action live on CW at 7:30 pm ET or follow along with radio coverage on MRN and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio.
The recent penalty has highlighted the ongoing rivalries and high competitive energy that define the latter part of the NASCAR season, with key figures like Mayer, Burton, and Sieg taking prominent roles. How this impacts the championship race and team strategies will be closely watched in the races ahead.
— Haas Factory Team (@HaasFactoryTeam) October 28, 2025
