Daniel Dye suspended after mocking IndyCar driver as gay

Daniel Dye (pictured) has been indefinitely suspended after making offensive remarks during a live stream on the online marketplace Whatnot. The Kaulig Racing driver was handling trading cards during the stream when he began recounting a story about meeting IndyCar driver David Malukas. While describing the interaction, Dye mocked Malukas using a homophobic voice, which was captured on the live stream and quickly spread on social media.

Team Penske signs David Malukas to replace Will Power. Photo supplied by Team Penske — Team Penske signed David Malukas to replace Will Power in 2026. Photo supplied by Team Penske

NASCAR issued an indefinite suspension and will require Dye to complete sensitivity training before any reinstatement can be considered. Kaulig Racing also announced their own indefinite suspension of Dye, effective immediately after becoming aware of the comments.

Dye apologized Tuesday afternoon:

I want to first apologize to David Malukas. I recently went on a live stream with some friends and made some careless comments. I chose my words poorly, and I understand why it upset people. I’m sorry to anyone who was offended. That’s not how I want to represent myself.

I have some close friends in the LGBTQ+ community who I would never want to feel less of themselves because of what I said, and that’s exactly why I should hold myself to a higher standard. In talking with them, I realize that a true friend would know better than to act the way I did and for that I need to be a better friend. What I said doesn’t reflect how I feel about them or anyone else.

I didn’t think enough before I spoke, and I in no way meant any harm. I know that intention does not erase impact and I need to do better.

I’m taking this seriously and working on being more aware and respectful moving forward. I’m sorry to everyone I let down. I am committed to learning from this and better understanding that the impact that my decisions can have on others. That includes educating myself, listening to those affected, and taking meaningful steps to ensure my actions reflect respect and inclusivity going forward.

I know I’ve got a platform and a responsibility, and I need to use it better.

– Daniel Dye