Matt Kenseth (USATSI)
Matt Kenseth has been suspended two races by NASCAR. (USATSI)

NASCAR has suspended Matt Kenseth for two races after Kenseth, who was nine laps down, wrecked the leader Joey Logano at Martinsville on Sunday.

“Based upon our extensive review, we have concluded that the No. 20 car driver, who is no longer in the Chase, intentionally wrecked the No. 22 car driver, a Chase-eligible competitor who was leading the race at the time,” said Steve O’Donnell, NASCAR executive vice president and chief racing development officer. “The No. 20 car was nine laps down, and eliminated the No. 22 car’s opportunity to continue to compete in the race.

“Additionally, we factored aspects of safety into our decision, and also the fact that the new Chase elimination format puts a premium on each and every race. These actions have no place in NASCAR.” 

Most suspect Kenseth wrecked Logano on purpose as retribution for an incident at Kansas Motor Speedway two weeks ago. The wreck certainly looked intentional as Kenseth spun Logano and proceeded to drive him into the wall.

Along with the two-race suspension, Kenseth will be on probation for six months. Joe Gibbs Racing is expected to appeal the suspension, with NASCAR pushing for an expedited appeal process, per NBC Sports.