NASCAR has imposed a significant penalty on RFK Racing and driver Chris Buescher following a post-race inspection of the No. 17 Ford Mustang after the AdventHealth 400 at Kansas Speedway. The infraction pertains to an L1-level violation concerning the front bumper cover, specifically excessive reinforcement behind the front bumper foam, exceeding the permissible limit of two inches. This issue was identified during a random teardown at NASCAR’s Research and Development Center.(SI)
As a result of the violation, RFK Racing has been fined $75,000. Additionally, both Buescher and the team have been penalized with a loss of 60 driver and owner points, along with a deduction of five Playoff points each. Crew chief Scott Graves has also been suspended for the next two NASCAR Cup Series events. These penalties are among the most severe imposed in recent seasons, highlighting NASCAR’s commitment to maintaining strict compliance with its technical standards.(SI)
The specific violation falls under Sections 14.1.C and 14.5.4.G of the NASCAR Cup Series Rule Book, which govern overall vehicle assembly and the front bumper cover, respectively. NASCAR Cup Series Director Brad Moran clarified that the infraction was due to unauthorized reinforcement behind the front bumper foam, a single-source part that teams are permitted to reinforce within a specified area. The No. 17 team’s modification exceeded the allowed reinforcement zone, leading to the penalty.(SI)
This is not the first time RFK Racing has faced penalties this season. Earlier, Buescher’s team was penalized for a detached wheel during the Pennzoil 400 at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, resulting in a last-place finish and subsequent suspension of two crew members. RFK Racing initially appealed that penalty but later withdrew the appeal, allowing the suspensions to take effect during the Food City 500 at Bristol Motor Speedway.(
The Kansas penalty has significant implications for Buescher’s position in the championship standings. The loss of 60 points places him further behind in the points race, potentially affecting his eligibility for the NASCAR Playoffs. With the season progressing, every point becomes crucial for drivers vying for a spot in the postseason.
RFK Racing has not yet announced whether they will appeal the Kansas penalty. The team’s decision will likely depend on their assessment of the violation’s severity and the potential impact on their season. An appeal could result in a reduction of the penalties or a complete overturn, but such outcomes are not guaranteed.
For now, Buescher and RFK Racing must focus on the upcoming races, aiming to recover from the points deficit and continue competing at a high level. The team’s performance in the next few events will be critical in determining their trajectory for the remainder of the season.
