NASCAR chief executive and chairman Brian France has taken an “indefinite leave of absence” after being charged for driving while intoxicated and criminal drug possession in Long Island, N.Y., Sunday night.
Vice Chairman and Executive Vice President Jim France has assumed the role of interim CEO and chairman “effective immediately,” according to a statement released Monday night by the sports organization.
According a Sag Harbor Village Police Department press release, officers pulled over Brian France, 56, after he failed to stop at a stop sign. During the traffic stop, police determined France was driving while intoxicated and reportedly found oxycodone on him during a search.
France faces charges of aggravated driving while intoxicated and criminal possession of a controlled substance in the 7th degree. France was held in custody overnight and was released Monday morning after his arraignment.
France apologized in a statement Monday.
“I apologize to our fans, our industry and my family for the impact of my actions [Sunday] night,” he said. “Effective immediately, I will be taking an indefinite leave of absence from my position to focus on my personal affairs.”
