Stewart expresses shock at latest allegations.

Tony Stewart's defence of his Chevrolet Monte Carlo 400 crown at Richmond last weekend was soured not only by a transmission failure in the final five laps but also by an assault allegation made against him by a female fan.

News first broke of the allegation shortly after Bud Pole qualifying on Friday at the three-quarter mile Richmond International Raceway and related to an incident two weeks ago at the Bristol Motor Speedway when, in the crowded paddock following the Sharpie 500, Stewart was said to have pushed passed a group of people in order to get through the front door of his motorhome.

The allegation couldn't have come at a worse time for the driver of the #20 Home Depot Pontiac who, earlier this year, said publicly that he would be seeking help following several paddock incidents with members of the media. Stewart is also on season-long probation with NASCAR, Joe Gibbs Racing and Home Depot after he shoved a photographer at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway in August.

However despite his previous track record, both Stewart's team and sponsor are standing by their man and Stewart's drive isn't seen as being under threat.

The following is a statement from NASCAR Winston Cup Series driver Tony Stewart regarding the ongoing investigation by the Sullivan County Sheriff's Office into an alleged incident between Stewart and a fan following the Aug. 24 Sharpie 500 at Bristol (Tenn.) Motor Speedway.

"In light of the ongoing investigation into the alleged incident following the Bristol night race, it would be inappropriate for me to comment in any great detail until law enforcement officials have completed their investigation, interviewing anyone and everyone who has knowledge about the events that transpired in the moments following the race.

"I am personally cooperating with the investigators, and I have advised all the people who work with me to cooperate as well. I am confident that once the investigation is complete, I will be cleared of any and all accusations.

"I will say, however, that I did not assault anyone. In fact, I am shocked and truly at a loss as to why someone would make such an allegation."