Facing possible sanctions that could keep him out of this coming weekend’s ASRA, AMA and FIM-sanctioned Daytona 200 and threaten his 2016 MotoAmerica season, two-time and defending Daytona 200 Champion Danny Eslick has issued a statement apologizing for the actions that led to his arrest late Monday night in Daytona Beach, Florida, just days before the start of practice for the 75th running of the iconic race.

According to Daytona Beach Police, Eslick was charged with felony battery on a law enforcement officer after a foot chase that ended with his arrest. The official police report said the chase started after an officer saw Eslick knock down a 51-year-old woman and then run away. According to the report, Eslick punched the pursuing officer during the chase and escaped his grasp several times before climbing a fence and being apprehended by another officer.

The statement, sent to Roadracing World via text message from Eslick’s phone, read as follows:

 “I am deeply remorseful for the events that occurred on March 8th. It was not and would never be my intention to hurt anyone, least of all the individuals who choose a career to protect us as citizens. I want to apologize to the city of Daytona, TOBC Racing, the racing organizations, and all the people that support me. 

“I am limited to what I can say at this point. I want to assure my fans and the public that this will never happen again. I’m very embarrassed and fully realize the gravity of the situation. At the heart of the matter I love this sport and care deeply about continuing to race motorcycles. The allegations I’ve been charged with in no way reflect who I am as a person. I just want to apologize again!!!”

The statement was signed, 

“Sincerely, Danny Eslick”

Stay tuned for more as the situation develops.