Noose Found in Garage of Bubba Wallace, Prompting NASCAR Investigation

NASCAR is launching an investigation after a noose was found in Bubba Wallace's garage at Talladega Superspeedway, the league announced in a statement Sunday.

"Late this afternoon, NASCAR was made aware that a noose was found in the garage stall of the 43 team," the statement read. "We are angry and outraged, and cannot state strongly enough how seriously we take this heinous act. We have launched an immediate investigation, and will do everything we can to identify the person(s) responsible and eliminate them from the sport. As we have stated unequivocally, there is no place for racism in NASCAR, and this act only strengthens our resolve to make the sport open and welcoming to all."

Wallace released a statement in response, promising "this will not break me."

"Today's despicable act of racism and hatred leaves me incredibly saddened and serves as a painful reminder of how much further we have to go as a society and how persistent we must be in the fight against racism," Wallace's statement said. "Over the last several weeks, I have been overwhelmed by the support from people across the NASCAR industry including other drivers and team members in the garage. Together, our sport has made a commitment to driving real change and championing a community that is accepting and welcoming of everyone. 

"Nothing is more important and we will not be deterred by the reprehensible actions of those who seek to spread hate. As my mother told me today, 'They are just trying to scare you.' This will not break me, I will not give in nor will I back down. I will continue to proudly stand for what I believe in."

On Monday, federal authorities confirmed they are investigating the incident. U.S. Attorney Jay Town said his office, the FBI and the Justice Department's Civil Rights Division were involved. The FBI was on-site at Talladega Superspeedway ahead of Monday afternoon's race.

Earlier this month, NASCAR announced a ban on Confederate flags at all events, something Wallace had advocated strongly for. Earlier on Sunday, fans outside of Talladega Superspeedway displayed Confederate flags from the vehicles. A plane flew overhead with a Confederate flag banner, with a sign reading "Defund NASCAR."

The Associated Press contributed to this report.