NASCAR suspended Truck Series driver Conner Jones for one race on Wednesday after he intentionally crashed another driver, Matt Mills, who spent two days in the hospital this weekend as a result of the wreck.
Jones, 18, lost his cool while racing at Homestead-Miami Speedway and rammed Mills’ rear bumper, sending Mills’ truck onto the track and into the wall. Mills’ truck then caught fire. The driver was taken to a local hospital for smoke inhalation.
NASCAR gave Jones a two-lap penalty at the time. But after a meeting this week, officials decided Jones’ behavior also warranted a one-race suspension.
Jones declined to speak to reporters at the track, but later apologized in a statement on social media that said in part: “Matt and I have encountered several incidents at the track this season, and I have let my frustration out . me. I underestimated the impact my actions would have on Matt, and I deeply regret the consequences that followed.
— Conner Jones (@connerjones88) October 26, 2024
After being released from the hospital on Monday, Mills posted a video to his social media channels expressing his appreciation for the outpouring of well wishes from fans.
“I definitely didn’t like being in the hospital for so long or being in that situation,” Mills said, his voice still hoarse from the smoke. “You are there to support me and help me through this. I can’t thank you enough.”
Happy to go home. Appreciate everyone who has reached out over the last few days. 🙏 pic.twitter.com/lN7Ph8y2fy
— Matt Mills (@mattmillsracing) October 28, 2024
Mills has been cleared to race Friday at Martinsville Speedway. He sits 23rd in the points standings for Niece Motorsports with two top-10 finishes this year.
Jones, who has been driving a part-time schedule for ThorSport Racing this season, has a best finish of the season of 11th. A replacement for Jones has not yet been named.
Required reading
(Photo: James Gilbert/Getty Images)