At the Sonoma race last Sunday, tensions spiked between the pit crews of Ty Gibbs and Brad Keselowski, nearly escalating into a physical fight. Although no drivers were directly involved in the altercation, the incident unfolded mid-race as tempers flared between the teams.
The incident began when Gibbs entered his pit stall but drove through Keselowski’s area, where Telvin McClurkin, a member of Keselowski’s crew, was holding two tires. Gibbs’ car made contact with McClurkin’s hands as he passed through, provoking an angry response that sent McClurkin over to Gibbs’ pit stall in confrontation.
Despite the heated moment, neither side sustained notable damage, but the clash left undeniable friction between the crews involved.
Keselowski Responds with a Cutting Message Highlighting Pit Crew Safety
Racing on the NASCAR circuit often involves fierce competition and moments where teams clash over space and safety. Following the incident at Sonoma, Keselowski, co-owner of RFK Racing, responded sharply after learning of the event’s details.
Unable to react during the heat of the moment, Keselowski later addressed the incident publicly on X with a sarcastic remark at Gibbs’ team. He posted a link to an Amazon product, a stitch-on spike stud, implying it would be useful for pit crews to protect themselves if cars come too close again. Importantly, Keselowski noted the product is legal to use, adding a pointed layer to his message.
Amazon really does have everything a pit crew could need. Legal too!
—Brad Keselowski, RFK Racing co-owner
This jab suggested that pit crew members might want to reinforce their suits with such studs to deter unwanted contact during chaotic pit stops.
Details of the Incident and Reactions from Both Sides
NASCAR reviewed the event and concluded that Ty Gibbs had not violated any rules, opting not to penalize the pit stop. McClurkin later spoke on NASCAR on TNT, revealing that although the contact did not cause severe injury, it did inflict enough discomfort to slow Keselowski’s pit stop.
Gibbs defended his actions by stating he had the right of way due to being the lead car, which according to racing rules, grants priority in the pit area. He believed the opposing crew should have moved aside. However, from McClurkin’s perspective, standing in the pit box while holding two tires was within acceptable bounds, and therefore he did not consider his position inappropriate.
Broader Implications for NASCAR Pit Crew Conduct and Safety
This incident at Sonoma highlights the fragile dynamics and occasional volatility during NASCAR pit stops, where split-second decisions can lead to friction and risk. Keselowski’s response underscores concerns about pit crew safety amid heightened pressure and physical proximity on the track.
As NASCAR continues to evolve, moments like these may prompt teams and officials to revisit pit lane protocols to reduce potential clashes and protect crew members from similar altercations. The dialogue sparked by Keselowski’s social media reaction brings attention to the need for balancing competitive edge with on-site safety.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Why does Ty Gibbs drive the 54?
A. In 2022, Gibbs competed full-time in the Xfinity Series, driving the No. 54 Toyota for his grandfather, team owner Joe Gibbs. That year, he captured attention with seven victories and qualified for the playoffs. Gibbs also had a chance to race in the Cup Series at Pocono Raceway.
Q. Is Ty Gibbs any good?
A. Racing Insights reports that Gibbs is among the top ten for passing, defense, and restarts on road tracks this year. He also holds fourth place in average running position, with a score of 10.92.
Q. Has Ty Gibbs ever won?
A. Ty Gibbs, the grandson of NASCAR team owner Joe Gibbs, quickly made a name for himself in 2021. He won his debut race in the Xfinity Series at the Daytona Road Course. In 2022, he joined the Xfinity Series full-time and secured the championship in his first full season.
Q. Has Ty Gibbs won?
A. In 2022, Gibbs began competing full-time in the Xfinity Series and claimed the championship during his first year.
