RCR takes Newman penalties to final appeals officer

BRISTOL, Tenn. - Richard Childress Racing has appealed NASCAR's penalties against Ryan Newman's team to the highest level.

The team made the move Friday, a day after losing its bid to overturn penalties levied against Newman's team for allegedly manipulating tires at a race last month at California.

Although an appeals panel reduced some of the sanctions, the six-week suspensions for crew chief Luke Lambert and two other team members were upheld.

RCR on Friday sent Todd Parrott to Bristol Motor Speedway as interim crew chief for Newman, but the decision to take the case to Final Appeals Officer Bryan Moss means Lambert and the two suspended crew members can work this weekend.

There was no immediate word from RCR if Lambert will direct Newman on Sunday.