Motorsport fans around Australia are protesting V8 Supercars’ decision to fine Bathurst pole-sitter David Reynolds $25,000 for ‘inappropriate’ comments earlier this week with the establishment of a crowdfunding appeal.
Reynolds was slapped with one of the largest individual fines in Australian motorsport history when he referred to the all-female wildcard entry in this year’s race as the “pussy wagon” in a media conference on Thursday.
The crowdfunding appeal through international website GoFundMe has already raised $2,000 in less than 24 hours.
Almost 60 fans and friends have contributed between $5 and $150 to help the Albury-born Melbourne driver, who managed to put the controversy behind him to record the fastest time in a rain-hit Top 10 Shootout today to win the $5,000 Armor All Pole Award.
Fans can leave their donation anonymously, but many have chosen to post their name and a comment. Notably, many of the donations and comments have been from female fans.
The appeal was created by Sam Robertson in South-East Queensland, who has been a friend of Reynolds for almost 20 years.
“As a friend I would like to help him get through this unfortunate misunderstanding and leave him in good spirits to get back to taking out the Bathurst 1000,” said Robertson on the site.
“I’m sure each and everyone of you not only support Reynolds because he’s one hell of a driver, but also because he is one down to earth and funny lad. Let’s do this, no donation too small.”
Fans can contribute to the fund by heading to www.gofundme.com/daviereynoldsfund.
Some of the comments from donors on the site include:
“Ridiculous punishment for having a sense of humour. Don’t ever change buddy. Smash Bathurst this weekend and show them who’s BOSS!!!,” – Jackie Edmunds.
“Stupid stupid fine!!!!,” – Tracey-Lee Bell.
“This is the most ridiculous fine I have heard of. Big fan of David Reynolds. Damn sure happy to put 100 towards it.wish I could afford more. Sorry,” – Kris Herrett
“All the best Davey I’m a Holden man, but the fine was bullshit,” – Ben Fielden
“Stay true to yourself Davey and keep up the jokes Go #55” – Tara Ferguson.
“Can’t stand by and not help you with that one mate ;)” – Mike Almond
“Pc gone crazy. Couldn’t call them castrol cougar these days,” – Cam Bates
“..they can share his data, but not his sense of humour..,” – Tim Newton
“Donating on behalf of anyone with a sense of humor worldwide,” – Dan H
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