Byline: June 26, 2025
Elko, MN — ARCA Menards Series driver Alex Clubb has found himself in the center of controversy after being fined and placed on probation by ARCA officials for the remainder of the 2025 season. The penalty stems from Clubb’s post-race comments made during an interview with Frontstretch following last weekend’s race at Elko Speedway.
Clubb, who also operates his own small team in the ARCA series, was fined $250 for violating Section 12-8 of the ARCA Rulebook, which covers Member Conduct related to media interactions and social media posts. The violation specifically cited “inappropriate or disparaging remarks” during a media interview, targeting other drivers in the series.
The Remarks That Sparked the Fine
After a challenging night at Elko — one of the shortest tracks on the ARCA circuit — Clubb aired his frustrations in a candid interview. “It’s just tough racing out here when half the field is made up of rich kids who’ve never turned a wrench,” Clubb said. “Some of us are out here grinding, paying out of pocket just to keep a car on the track.”
While some fans praised the honesty, ARCA officials deemed the remarks inappropriate and in violation of professional conduct standards expected of series members.
ARCA’s Response
In an official statement, ARCA emphasized that while they support free speech and transparency, comments that publicly demean fellow competitors or paint the series in a negative light will be addressed through disciplinary action.
“Drivers and team members are expected to represent the ARCA Menards Series with professionalism,” the statement read. “Mr. Clubb’s remarks were found to be in violation of our media conduct policy and do not align with the values we uphold.”
Clubb Responds to the Penalty
Clubb, who has long been vocal about the financial disparities in developmental racing, responded to the penalty on social media with a mix of frustration and resolve:
“I stand by my message, but maybe not my delivery. I’ve always spoken from the heart — that won’t change. But I respect ARCA’s decision and I’ll move forward, focused on racing.”
He added, “Being a small team owner/driver is hard enough. I just want people to understand what we’re up against.”
A Broader Conversation in Racing
Clubb’s comments — and the penalty that followed — have reignited a larger conversation about the role of money in developmental racing series like ARCA. For years, the divide between funded drivers and grassroots racers has been a tension point, with many arguing that the pathway to the top levels of motorsports is increasingly gated by wealth.
Veteran driver Ken Schrader weighed in on the issue without directly referencing Clubb: “This sport’s always had a money factor. But we can’t ignore the challenges faced by owner-drivers trying to make it on grit and passion alone.”
What’s Next for Clubb
With the fine paid and the probation in effect for the remainder of 2025, Clubb is expected to continue competing. Sources close to his team say he remains committed to finishing the season despite limited resources.
As for the probation, ARCA officials clarified that any further violations could result in escalated penalties, including suspensions or further fines.
Conclusion
In a sport where emotions run as high as the RPMs, Alex Clubb’s comments have shed light on a harsh reality many in the garage already know — racing is as much about dollars as it is about drive. And while his delivery may have cost him, his message has sparked a renewed focus on the financial pressures facing grassroots competitors.
Whether you agree with him or not, one thing is clear: Alex Clubb is racing with more than just horsepower — he’s racing with heart.
