Suspended Sprint Cup Series owner/driver Jeremy Mayfield raised a number of eyebrows on Saturday when he showed up at the Lowe’s Motor Speedway for the Sprint Showdown. NASCAR announced last weekend prior to the Southern 500 at Darlington they had indefinitely suspended Mayfield following a failed drug test in Richmond. This has been one of the hottest topics in the garage this week and Mayfield’s attendance came much to the surprise of everyone at the speedway.

A handful of reporters caught up with Mayfield who was watching J.J. Yeley pilot the team’s No. 41 in the Showdown from atop an infield hospitality facility. Talking with the group of media, Mayfield denied he had used recreational drugs and again claimed his violation was a result of taking Claritin D and a prescription drug. Dr. David Black has argued against this claim and NASCAR Chairman and CEO Brian France called Mayfield’s violation a “serious infraction” Friday at the Lowe’s Motor Speedway.

Mayfield told reporters he had no intentions to take part in the rehabilitation process and that he was unaware of the substance he had tested positive for. The suspended driver went on to say he has contacted legal representation.

NASCAR officials reportedly asked Mayfield to leave the premises and then issued the following statement:   

"All NASCAR members who violate the policy, including Jeremy, are notified of the substance that caused the failure.  Jeremy was verbally informed of the substance on three occasions last week by NASCAR's Medical Review Officer. NASCAR stands by the reputable physicians and the nationally renowned lab that handles our substance abuse program."

"No suspended driver or crew member is permitted in any area of the track where NASCAR business or responsibilities are conducted.  This includes, but not limited to the garage, spotters stand, pit road, driver/owner lot, and hospitality areas. There seems to have been a misunderstanding on Jeremy's part.  NASCAR officials spoke with him and he understands the rules of suspension and agreed to comply."

This is a story that will continue to develop as the weeks go on. The dispute between Mayfield, Dr. Black and NASCAR has raised a number of questions that need to be answered. Many drivers in the NASCAR garage have called on the sanctioning body to release the substance Mayfield tested positive for, however France was steadfast in his comments saying they would not release that information. This has left drivers in limbo and fans wanting answers.

Be sure to check back to HardcoreRaceFans.com for all of the latest developments on this issue.

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