From the moment AJ Allmendinger's business manager said the NASCAR driver tested positive for a banned stimulant, some people began drawing a connection to one of his recently signed sponsors.
In March, Allmendinger was named as an endorser for "Fuel In A Bottle," which offers both energy-shot and protein-shot drinks, similar to others on the market now. Because of the endorsement, fans and even some media speculated it could have been a reason for Allmendinger's failed test.
Is that even possible? Here's what Amy Pearce, Fuel In A Bottle's director of brand development, said in a statement to SB Nation when we asked for comment on the speculation linking the product to the failed test:
All ingredients in Fuel in a Bottle are recognized as safe by the Federal Food and Drug Administration. Ingredients in Fuel in a Bottle include Niacin, Vitamin B6, Vitamin B12, Taurine, Caffeine, Sucralose and L-phenylalanine, an amino acid found in proteins.
These ingredients are similar to those found in virtually all energy shots and energy drinks, as well as in many common foods like eggs, fish, beef, cheese and milk.
We don't know which stimulant got Allmendinger suspended. So until we do, it's unfair to NASCAR, Allmendinger and even third parties like Fuel In A Bottle to speculate on what might have been the cause of the positive drug test.
It's human nature to be curious and want answers, but let's all wait until more facts come out before trying to theorize on why Allmendinger failed a drug test.