Luyendyk Gets Fine, Probation for Track Violation

Arie Luyendyk of the Netherlands, winner of the Indianapolis 500, was fined Saturday and placed on probation for the rest of the season for a track violation during Friday’s qualifying session for the Molson-Indy race.

Wally Dallenbach, chief steward for CART, the Indy-car sanctioning body, said Luyendyk was penalized for failing to observe the checkered flag at the end of the 30-minute qualifying session.

“I accept the fine and I understand why they are doing it,” Luyendyk said. “All I can say is that I didn’t do it intentionally and I’m sorry for any rules infraction.

“I do think that probation is a bit harsh, but that’s what’s been decided and we’ll put this incident behind us and go on with our program for the week.”

The Dutch driver reportedly ran three fast laps on the 1.78-mile, 11-turn temporary circuit after the checkered flag was displayed, then sped down pit lane with crew members, officials and media already over the pit wall.