NASCAR via Getty Images (file photo)NASCAR CEO Brian France Takes Leave of Absence Following Arrest August 7, 2018 NASCAR NASCAR CEO Brian France announced late Monday he is taking an indefinite leave of absence from his position. The move comes on the heels of France’s arrest Sunday evening in Sag Harbour, New York on charges of aggravated driving while intoxicated and possession of a controlled substance. “I apologize to our fans, our industry and my family for the impact of my actions last night,” France, 56, said in a statement. “Effective immediately, I will be taking an indefinite leave of absence from my position to focus on my personal affairs.” According to the police report, France spent Sunday night in custody and was released Monday morning after an arraignment. France apparently ran a stop sign before being stopped and found to be intoxicated. A subsequent search found him to be in possession of oxycodone pills. Brian France is a grandson to NASCAR founder, the late Bill France, and has been CEO since 2003. Together with his sister Lesa France Kennedy and uncle, Jim France, the trio held the top three positions in the family dynasty. Jim France will assume his nephew’s responsibilities at NASCAR on an interim basis.
