Stewards explain controversial Kostecki/Mostert clash

Motorsport Australia officials have explained why Chaz Mostert was hit with a 30-second penalty over his controversial clash with Brodie Kostecki.

Mostert and Kostecki collided in the final stages of the ITM Christchurch Super 440 finale, with the latter surfing through the grass.

Kostecki managed to finish, but lost the championship lead to Broc Feeney. Mostert, meanwhile, was dumped down the order after being hit with a 30-second penalty.

Mostert was reclassified from fourth to 17th, with Kostecki 18th.

Over team radio, Kostecki fumed: "What a load of s**t."

After the race, officials release the penalty findings, explaining that Mostert made "avoidable contact" with Kostecki's Ford.

The report reads: "The Stewards reviewed broadcast vision in conjunction with the DSA and determined that the Driver of Car 1 made avoidable contact with Car 17 between Turn 2 and 3, causing Car 17 to lose multiple positions.

"The Stewards consider this driving conduct amounts to a breach of the Rules and impose a penalty consistent with previous breaches of a similar nature.

"The Competitor is reminded that Decisions and Penalties that may be subject to Appeal are set out in B7.7.2 and the Rights to and process for an Appeal are set out in B5."

Kostecki dropped behind Feeney, a 45-point advantage becoming a 23-point deficit, while Mostert dropped down to 11th in the standings.