Monday, May 18, 2009

Jeremy Mayfield: A Lightning Rod For Controversy

The soap opera that is Jeremy Mayfield has apparently taken another turn for the worse. This time the doctor who administered the test has come forth and disputed Mayfield's claim that he was never told what drug he tested positive for.

Dr. David Black, chairman for Aegis Sciences Corporation, stated that he told Mayfield exactly what he tested positive for at least once. Black went on to say that Mayfield's claim that he failed due to a mixture of over-the-counter drugs and prescription drugs is inaccurate and impossible.

The reason for Mayfield's suspension may be a surprise to him and his fans, but the fact that he's once again at the center of a major NASCAR controversy isn't surprising in the least bit.

While racing for Roger Penske, Mayfield was let go late into the '01 season because he and Penske had a spat over claims that Penske was showing favoritism towards Rusty Wallace.

That paled in comparison to what happened during his time with Ray Evernham.

Even though Mayfield found victory lane and made the Chase on two separate occasions, the relationship began to sour after poor performances led to claims by Mayfield that Evernham was spending less time at the shop and the track and more time with developmental driver Erin Crocker. Mayfield was eventually fired and quickly filed a lawsuit over breach of contract. The two settled out of court and went their separate ways.

Is it really that surprising that Mayfield is once again at the center of controversy and drama? If you look at what happened with Penske and Evernham they all share one common theme; it's someone else's fault.

Plain and simple Jeremy Mayfield is in denial. The chip on his shoulder has become too much to bear and Mayfield's found comfort playing the role of victim. The more he talks about his suspension the guiltier he looks. It's why NASCAR is keeping quiet and he's not. It's also why Jeremy Mayfield is once again on the outside looking in.

1 comment:

cindy said...

I agree with your article 100%. Unfortunately. Many reporters/blogs are giving Jeremy a platform to say whatever he wants. I guess he's luck he does not play baseball or football. That press would have ripped him to shreds with all the excuses.