# NASCAR Team Apologizes After Driver Release Controversy

> Peterson Racing apologizes for social media backlash after abruptly replacing Austin Green.
- Title: NASCAR Team Apologizes After Driver Release Controversy
- Summary: Peterson Racing apologizes for social media backlash after abruptly replacing Austin Green.
- Keywords: peterson racing, austin green, nascar, nascar o'reilly auto parts series, charlotte motor speedway, phoenix raceway, talladega superspeedway, nick sanchez, lee pulliam, harrison burton, sports, Team
- Source: EssentiallySports — https://essentiallysports.com/nascar-news-personal-attacks-are-not-acceptable-nascar-team-issues-public-apology-after-replacing-oreilly-star-for-final-races
- Author: Dipti Sood
- Published: 2026-10-21T21:53:54+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: peterson racing, austin green, nascar, nascar o'reilly auto parts series, charlotte motor speedway, phoenix raceway, talladega superspeedway, nick sanchez, lee pulliam, harrison burton, sports
## Driver Release Decision
Peterson Racing abruptly replaced Austin Green after his first 16 races in 2026.
## Social Media Backlash
Fans questioned why the team changed drivers before final three races.
## Team's Initial Response
Peterson Racing claimed no change to Talladega lineup after Austin Green's last race.
## Public Apology
Peterson Racing apologized for social media interactions that worsened tension with fans.
## Driver Lineup Changes
Nick Sanchez drove No. 87 at Phoenix after Austin Green's Charlotte finish.
## Final Race Dispute
Lee Pulliam took over No. 87 at Talladega, leaving Green without final two races.
## Team's Stance
Peterson Racing supports Austin Green but acknowledges poor communication.
## Key takeaway

Peterson Racing apologizes for social media responses that fueled backlash after replacing Austin Green for final races.