Over the weekend, NASCAR raced on the 1.5-mile of Homestead-Miami Speedway. We saw a unique situation unfold between NASCAR officials and Front Row Motorsports.
Ahead of the NASCAR Truck Series race, NASCAR confiscated the steering wheel on the No. 38 Front Row Motorsports truck. After the steering wheel was removed, NASCAR required the team to go across the scales.
With a different steering wheel, the truck was underweight by 4 pounds. Per the rules, the team was required to attached ballast to the machine before the green flag.
However, that also resulted in a penalty. The team was required to forfeit their starting spot and start the race from the rear of the field.
After the race, NASCAR took the steering wheel back to the NASCAR R&D Center for a detailed investigation.
Miami Results: October 26, 2024 (NASCAR Truck Series)
It’s not uncommon for NASCAR to confiscate parts for a further inspection. Yet, a steering wheel is a fairly uncommon part to be taken.
On Wednesday, NASCAR issued an additional penalty to the team. They’ve been docked 10 driver and owner points. Additionally, their Crew chief has been suspended for 1 race.
All ballast must be placed inside a container. It also must be stationary. If ballast is installed on or in a steering wheel, it violets this rule, on both counts.
Infraction: Section 14.3.4.A&B: Ballast Containers Note: Any and all ballast added to the vehicle must be secured inside a ballast container(s). Added ballast must be secured in a manner that will prevent movement of the ballast during the event.
Penalty: Crew chief (Dylan Cappello) has been suspended from NASCAR through the next NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series Championship event, through and including Martinsville Speedway, November 1, 2024. Team assessed with the loss of 10 driver and owner points.
Full NASCAR Penalty Report
Note: Front Row Motorsports and 23XI Racing are currently involved in an antitrust lawsuit with NASCAR. Both teams are looking for better terms regarding the charter agreement on the NASCAR Cup Series side.
