Image: Supplied.

Former champion Jason Anderson has been handed down a penalty for a track infringement during the dying stages of the 450SX main event in Tampa, marking round seven of Monster Energy Supercross.

The Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing rider engaged in a battle with Malcolm Stewart (Smartop Bullfrog Spas MotoConcepts Honda) for seventh position during the closing moments of the 26-lap affair, which ultimately heated up on the final lap.

Stewart pushed Anderson wide ahead of the whoops on approach to the finish line, forcing the number 21 to miss the entire section. Anderson didn’t slow down despite the infraction, prompting officials to dock him two positions.

He was credited 10th, promoting Adam Cianciarulo (Monster Energy Kawasaki) and Justin Brayton (Team Honda HRC) to positions eight and nine.

Anderson is now ranked sixth in the championship standings as the series heads to Arlington in Texas for round eight of the series, scheduled for 22 February.