CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Four-time NASCAR champion Jeff Gordon avoided suspension Monday when NASCAR instead fined him $100,000 and docked him 25 points for intentionally wrecking Clint Bowyer at Phoenix International Raceway.

Gordon also was placed on probation through Dec. 31. But he’ll be allowed to close out the season at Homestead-Miami Speedway despite his actions in Sunday’s race, which triggered a fight in the garage area between the two drivers’ crews.

“I take responsibility for my actions on the racetrack,” Gordon said in a statement. “I accept NASCAR’s decision and look forward to ending the season on a high note at Homestead.”

The penalty drops Gordon to 11th in the Chase for the Sprint Cup championship with one race remaining. He’s now four points behind Martin Truex Jr. for 10th, and only the top-10 drivers have formal roles in the season-ending awards ceremony in Las Vegas.

Rick Hendrick also was docked 25 car owner points, and crew chief Alan Gustafson was placed on probation through the end of the year.

“I’ve always respected Jeff for standing his ground,” said Hendrick, owner of Hendrick Motorsports. “We also respect that NASCAR needs to police the sport and send a message when situations like this occur. It’s been a great year, and we’re going to put our focus on finishing in a positive way this weekend.”