AJ Allmendinger releases statement on failing NASCAR drug test

Credit: Drew Hallowell / Getty Images

AJ Allmendinger released the following statement Tuesday regarding his failed NASCAR drug test:

“I have informed NASCAR that I have requested that the “B” sample be tested, following the steps according to NASCAR’s 2012 rule book regarding this situation. I fully respect NASCAR’s drug usage policy and the reasons they have it. I am hoping this can get resolved as quickly as possible so that I can get back to driving the No. 22 Penske Racing Dodge. I am sorry that this has caused such a distraction for my Penske Racing team, our sponsors and fans. Obviously I would never do anything to jeopardize my opportunity here at Penske Racing or to my fellow drivers. I am very conscious about my training and health and would never knowingly take a prohibited drug.”

Sam Hornish Jr. will pilot the No. 22 Pennzoil Dodge for Penske Racing this weekend at New Hampshire Motor Speedway. Hornish replaced Allmendinger at Sunday's Coke Zero 400 at Daytona following Allmendinger's positive test result.