Driscoll Comments On Busch's Suspension

Patricia Driscoll has commented on NASCAR’s decision to indefinitely suspend former boyfriend Kurt Busch, after a Delaware Family Court Commissioner ruled that the former NASCAR Sprint Cup Series champion assaulted her last September at Dover International Speedway.

“For victims of domestic violence there are no `victories,’” said Driscoll in a written statement. “My only hope is that the pain and trauma I suffered through this process will help other victims find their voice.  Unfortunately we live in a culture where stories like mine are often swept under the rug out of fear and with the knowledge that for every person who shows empathy many more will seek to disparage the victim.  It is bad enough to endure the actual physical abuse but the verbal attacks that follow when a victim speaks up are sometimes just as painful. 

“Today NASCAR took an important step and deserves to be commended,” said Driscoll. “The next steps are to develop a thorough process and policies that re-enforce the organization’s position it took today:  Domestic violence will not be tolerated in NASCAR. 

Stewart-Haas Racing executive vice president Joe Custer also commented on Busch’s suspension, saying, “We understand NASCAR’s position regarding Kurt Busch and accept their decision. We are in the midst of finalizing our plans for the Daytona 500 and we will announce those details as soon as we’re ready.”

Chevrolet vice president of Motorsports and Performance Vehicles Jim Campbell announced late yesterday that the manufacturer “has suspended its relationship with Kurt Busch indefinitely,” adding that they “will continue to monitor the events surrounding Mr. Busch and are prepared to take additional action if necessary.”

Busch has not commented.