In virtual races, such as those currently taking place in almost all motorsport classes in Corona times, unlike in real competitions, the drivers are not in mortal danger. Nevertheless, such an e-race cost the job of Nascar driver Kyle Larson.
The 27-year-old afforded a rough verbal derailment in an e-sports competition against other professionals. During Sunday’s race, he apparently thought he had lost the live connection. But that was not the case – so everyone in the stream could hear the American when he forgot himself for a moment and asked: «Can’t you hear me, N *** he?»
No apology
After the racial incident, there was great outrage. A shitstorm broke out on social media, sponsors such as McDonald’s or Credit One Bank jumped and the US racing series Nascar and his team Chip Ganassi Racing suspended the pilot.
Larson later responded with a video on Twitter and apologized for his mistake that he was actually brought up differently. But that was not enough. On Tuesday evening, his team pulled the rip cord and released the pilot. “As we said, Kyle’s comments were offensive and unacceptable. When we further evaluated the situation, it became clear that this was the only appropriate way to proceed, »the team said.
Statement regarding Kyle Larson: pic.twitter.com/5Q06Dhst8V
– Chip Ganassi Racing (@CGRTeams) April 14, 2020
The racist derailment in the virtual race cost Larson the job and probably the whole career. Although he has only posted six wins in the highest Nascar Cup series so far, he was considered a promising driver for the future.
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