NASCAR officials have delivered a significant blow to Ryan Preece and Joey Logano by disqualifying their cars following the Cup Series race at Talladega. The disqualification stems from violations detected in the rear spoilers during the post-race inspection, raising questions about adherence to the strict regulations enacted by NASCAR. The decision came swiftly after both drivers finished in the top five, highlighting the gravity of the situation.
Logano’s No. 22 Ford Mustang was found in violation of Rule No. 14.5.8.E, which outlines the necessary specifications for spoiler braces. These braces must be painted black and consist of certain parts including the spoiler, deck lid, and an L-shaped brace, all designed to maintain structural integrity at right angles. NASCAR has intensified scrutiny of this rule recently, as adjustments to spoiler angles can yield competitive advantages such as increased speed and fuel efficiency.
Motorsports consultant Bozi Tatarevic speculated during his analysis on YouTube that one of the critical bolts securing the brace might have been missing during the inspection process. The unpredictable nature of racing often leads to parts becoming dislodged due to the physical strain of the event. In a peculiar incident during the race, an unexpected bird collided with Josh Berry‘s windshield, showcasing the chaotic environment drivers navigate. Despite this fallout, Team Penske has opted not to appeal the penalty against Logano.
Ryan Preece’s disqualification was based on a breach of Rule No. 14.5.8.F, which regulates how spoilers can be attached and adjusted. The rule specifies that shimming—using thin materials between the polycarbonate face and the base of the spoiler—is allowed, provided that there are no gaps between these elements. For superspeedway events, only two full-width single-piece graduated carbon fiber shims may be employed to shift the spoiler angle. However, NASCAR discovered that Preece’s No. 60 Mustang utilized three shims, leading to its disqualification.
The implications of adjusting the spoiler placement in conjunction with the deck lid and base are profound. Altering the angle can significantly enhance airflow, which in turn reduces drag and optimizes fuel usage. While such modifications might not be crucial for drivers leading a single line, they clearly benefit those racing in tighter packs — a typical scenario in the NASCAR Cup Series. This raises the stakes for RFK Racing, which now faces a complex challenge should they choose to contest the ruling, particularly given the technical details surrounding the violation.
The ramifications of this disqualification extend beyond individual race results; they send a clear message regarding NASCAR’s commitment to enforcing regulations. Fans and teams alike are left pondering the future strategies of both drivers and their teams. As NASCAR scrutinizes compliance more rigorously, Ryan Preece and others in the field must tread carefully, knowing that the competitive edge can hinge on the smallest of details. What remains uncertain is whether RFK Racing will take steps to appeal this verdict, as they weigh the implications for their continued performance in the season.
