NASCAR Ford Driver Cody Ware Suspended Following Arrest

Cody Ware, driver of the No. 51 NASCAR Ford Mustang for Rick Ware Racing (RWR), has been suspended indefinitely by the sanctioning body following his arrest on April 10^th, 2023, according to FOX Sports reporter Bob Pockrass on Twitter.

Ware was taken into custody on charges of assault on a female and assault by strangulation – inflict serious injury. According to the Iredell County, NC Sheriff’s Office, the incident took place on April 3^rd, 2023. The incident was classified as domestic violence and as aggravated assault, with “personal weapons” found on Ware’s hands, fist and feet. Ware’s bond was $3,000, and as of Monday, April 10^th, he is no longer in jail.

As a result, NASCAR announced that Ware is suspended indefinitely from competition.

RWR released a statement in response to the issue, stating, “We are aware of the incident regarding Cody Ware and his indefinite suspension from NASCAR competition. We understand NASCAR’s position on the matter and accept their decision. The matter is still under investigation and Cody is fully cooperating with the authorities, as due process takes its course.”

The organization added, “RWR is committed to continuing our multi-car efforts in the NASCAR Cup Series and is in the process of finalizing our plans for the No. 51 entry at Martinsville Speedway, and beyond. These plans will be announced in the coming days.”

It’s worth noting that Cody Ware did not drive in the 2023 Bristol dirt race on April 9^th. At the time, RWR cited a “personal matter” for his absence in the Cup Series. Matt Crafton, a Truck Series regular, subbed in the No. 51 NASCAR Ford Mustang in Ware’s stead at Bristol, but it’s not clear at this time if he will be tapped to sub for Ware again, or if another driver will be named.

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