E.J. Viso called in sick before the first practice at the Auto Club Speedway yesterday.

This was a shock to everyone at the track, and an aggravating move for the Andretti Autosport team.

Now, however, news has come to light that there may be a deeper reasoning for the Venezuelan not racing this weekend in the season finale MAVTV 500 in Fontana.

Fox News and Reuters are reporting that the funds the country provides its athletes abroad has been halted as an investigation into their activities is now underway by the Justice Minister Miguel Rodriguez.

Viso has not spoken at length about the issue, but Fox News reported that he welcomed the investigation, according to a newspaper article.

Rodriguez is quotes as saying athletes have been paid out large sums of money for "activities that were either fictitious or overpriced."

More on this story as it becomes available.