Kansas Race Penalty Update: RFK Racing’s Buescher Sees Reduced Points Penalty
Following the recent NASCAR Cup Series event at Kansas, RFK Racing’s No. 17 team, driven by Chris Buescher, faced penalties related to a violation concerning the car’s front bumper cover. The ruling stemmed from NASCAR’s findings at the R&D Center, where it was determined that the team exceeded regulations regarding the reinforcement of the bumper.
Specifically, NASCAR cited a breach of Section 14.5.4 of the rulebook, which permits minor strengthening of the fascia with non-metallic materials. The initial penalties imposed on the team included a 60-point deduction in both driver and owner standings, a $75,000 fine, five playoff points forfeited, and a two-race suspension for crew chief Scott Graves.
However, the National Motorsports Appeals Panel (NMPA) reviewed the case and upheld the violation but found insufficient grounds to support a second charge regarding Section 14.1.2 (Exhaust Cover Panel). Consequently, the points penalty was halved from 60 to 30. This revision significantly impacts Buescher’s standings, moving him from 23rd to 16th place in the regular season rankings, crucial as the playoffs approach.
In their statement, the NMPA acknowledged NASCAR’s evidence concerning the bumper cover but noted a lack of clarity in the exhaust panel regulations, leading to their decision to reduce the penalty.
The panel members included Tom DeLoach, Cary Tharrington, and Kevin Whitaker. In response to the ruling, RFK Racing expressed satisfaction with the outcome, emphasizing their commitment to compliance and focusing on upcoming races, notably the event in Nashville.
For the RFK team, the reduction in penalties not only enhances their competitive position but also underscores the intricate balance of regulatory adherence and performance in the high-stakes environment of NASCAR.
