Kyle Busch clocked going 128 mph

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CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- NASCAR Sprint Cup driver Kyle Busch was cited on Tuesday in North Carolina for driving almost three times the speed limit.

Busch was pulled over by the Iredell County Sheriff's department going 128 mph in a 45-mph zone.

Busch was charged with careless and wreckless driving as well as speeding.

Capt. Darren Campbell of the sheriff's department told ESPN.com that Busch had his proper identification and was cooperative.

Busch, who is third in the Sprint Cup standings, released a statement Tuesday evening addressing his citation.

"I was test driving a new sports car and I got carried away," Busch explained. "I went beyond the speed I should have been going on a public road. I apologize to the public, my fans, sponsors, and race teams for my lack of judgment. I take responsibility for my actions and I can assure you that something like this will never happen again."

Officials at Joe Gibbs Racing said they were aware of Busch's citation.

NASCAR spokesman Kerry Tharp said Busch would be allowed to race in this weekend's Coca-Cola 600 at Charlotte Motor Speedway.

"This is a matter that Kyle will have to handle with the authorities in Iredell County. Based on what we know right now, this would not impact his status as a NASCAR driver. We'll have no further comment at this time," Tharp said.

According to the police report, Busch was driving a yellow Lexus on Perth Road near Troutman.

The car was a manufacturer vehicle and not registered in anyone's name.

Of the 128 mph Busch was caught going, Campbell said, "That's one of the better ones I remember."

David Newton covers motorsports for ESPN.com. Information from The Associated Press was used in this report.

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• NASCAR writer for ESPN.com
• NFL, college football writer for 20 years
• National award winner in motorsports coverage