AJ Allmendinger has been suspended indefinitely by NASCAR for failing a random drug test. Allmendinger had requested that his B sample be tested, following an announcement by NASCAR that he had tested postive for a banned substance.
What substance Allmendinger tested positive for is still unknown. Tara Ragan, the vice-president of Walldinger Racing, stated that the driver had tested positive for a “banned stimulant” which was “within nanograms of accepted standards.”
The next set of moves by Allmendinger may ultimately determine the future of his racing career.
If Allmendinger aggressively pursues NASCAR over the failed test many will quickly link him to Jermey Mayfield. Mayfield was suspended by NASCAR in July 2009 after testing positive for methamphetamine. Mayfield still claims he is innocent to this day but the reality is Mayfield’s days behind the wheel of a Sprint Cup car are long over. While this is an option for Allmendinger, it’s an unlikely one if he does desire to continue racing in NASCAR.
The other option for Allmendinger is to take responsibility. Allmendinger needs to state what drug he tested positive for if he ever expects to get back on the good side of public opinion. Thus far Allmendinger has indicated he will find out the reasons for his positive test.
Following the announcement of his failed test he posted on twitter. “Im sorry we even have to have this going on. But i promise ..i will do whatever it takes to get to the bottom of this and get back our there no matter what. Thanks guys.
There is no problem in finding out the reasons for a failed drug test if you never intentionally took a banned substance. However, Allmendinger needs to take responsibility for the failed test. Intentional or not. Even if Allmendinger has no plans to continue a career in NASCAR he needs to complete it’s “road to recovery” program that will be outlined for him.
Sam Hornish has been named as the replacement driver for the #22 Dodge for the events at Indianapolis and Pocono. Hornish drove the car at Daytona and New Hampshire once Allmendinger was suspended.
By making the wrong moves Allmendinger will be classified as just another story of what could have been. If Allmendinger makes the right moves he has the ability to be an inspiration to all.
I AM ALL FOR DRUG TESTING IN ANY TYPE OF RACING, BUT IF THEY ARE FOUND POSITIVE THEY SHOULD STATE THE TYPE OF DRUG, I READ IT COULD HAVE BEEN A SPORT DRINK OR SOMETHING OF THE NATURE, IF SO ANYONE COULD COME UP POSITIVE, LIKE 5HR ENERGY ETC. ETC. LETTING THE PUBLIC AND FANS OF AJ KNOW WHAT HE HAS TAKEN IS OF GREAT IMPORTANCE.
I have raced in the Exide Battery Series in the 80″s and 90″s, I also am a commercial pilot and truck driver. I have had many, many, many drug tests and I can tell you all that the only reason for a positive test is that he was “using” an illeagal stimulant. All drug tests outline the criteria for testing and exactly what they test for. If you want to know what stim’s he possible tested positve for just go online and look up the testing criteria for several drug tests.It ususally ranges from the basics like pot, meth. hallucinogens and pcp to a broad spectrum test including the before mentioned along with detailed tests for compounds found in all toxins, opiate based plants, and chemical make ups of the huge gammot of drugs used on the street and perscribed by doctors today. The tests are never, never, never I repeate are NEVER wrong. the only possibles are the wrong sample was used for the test, I.E. some one elses. The degree of accuracy is incredible and most chemical drugs like cocaine and opiates such as oxycotin, vicodin etc. etc. usually are cleared from the body in a short period of time unlike weed which attatches itself to the fat cells. this means AJ knowingly new what he was taking. Its unfortunate but undeniable. I KNOW, Ive been there. there are no consumer based products in any stores that one can consume at a reasonable level that would test poitive for illicit drugs. even poppy seeds would require one to eat an unbelievable amount of treats laden with them to test at a high level. I had broken my neck racing in up state N.York and underwent major surgery and was on very powerful meds for a long period of time. It took a special detox clinic and a treatment program lasting several months to stop the withdrawl effects of the meds. there is a good possibility that he was taking perscribed meds he was given for some other condition. although he is allowed to be in possesion… he may not use them during a sanctioned event meaning he must stop taking the pills early enough for the full amount of the compounds to be flushed from the body. as unfortunate as it is ….The bottom line is that he knew the risks and took the chance. It is interesting to note that he just happened to be tested right before the race at the last minute. It could be that there was some suspision or reasonable doubt about the way he was acting or where or whom he was haning out with. I personally would not use anything that would jepordize such a fantastic career knowing I could be tested at any time before an event. when a random test is asked for in NASCAR also should shed some light on the isssue. Do they test right befor the events or is it any old time of your life. As a driver/pilot I could be lying on the beach in the Bahamas and get a call from my drug consortium and have to report to the nearest testing facility to provide a sample. Anytime, anywhere is their motto. If I do not show up in the alotted time I am immeadiately suspended and a positive result is put in my record. Lets face it the saftey of everyone else on the track is NASCARS resposibility. It pains me to see that his Daytona Proto tye team already stated that they intend to use him at Datona. does this mean they dont require drug testing or are they certain that AJ will complete the recovery plan by then. I am an AJ fan and knew he was doomed the moment he tested positive. Im not a big Brad K. fan but he is pretty much right on with his statements made to NASCAR media. Good luck AJ. Remember this is about you and your life. Not anyone elses. It does not matter what we all think. Take care of yourself. I know you have alot of people around you who care. Stay strong and good luck!