The Jack Link’s 500 at Talladega Superspeedway saw unexpected storylines unfold. Austin Cindric claimed his first season victory, putting an end to Team Penske‘s winless run in 2025 and securing a top-3 finish for Kyle Larson on the superspeedway. Yet, the stories that dominated the post-race discussions included Ryan Preece achieving his highest ever finish in second place and reigning Cup Series Champion, Joey Logano, finally making a top-5 finish. Just as the fans commenced their celebrations, a dreaded postrace inspection delivered a shocking blow.
NASCAR announced that both Ryan Preece and Joey Logano were disqualified following the Jack Link’s 500 after their cars failed post-race inspection. Preece’s No. 60 RFK Racing Ford was found to have three shims on its rear spoiler instead of the mandated two. Such a violation of Rule 14.5.8.F. led to a technical infraction. The rule specifies using only two shims on the spoiler to control its angle and aerodynamic properties. This helps ensure aerodynamic parity, as altering the spoiler’s positioning or flexibility can grant an unfair aerodynamic advantage by using a different number of shims.
Joey Logano’s No. 22 Team Penske Ford faced a similar fate, missing a spoiler bolt, failing to comply with Rules 14.5.8.E and 14.1.P. The first rule mandates that all spoiler components, including bolts and fasteners, must be properly installed and intact, ensuring the spoiler adheres to the standardized aerodynamic specifications. A missing bolt can destabilize the spoiler, potentially providing an unfair aerodynamic advantage.
Rule 14.1.P, on the other hand, guarantees each part conforms to NASCAR’s specifications, confirming that no unauthorized modifications have been made. This rule acts as a safeguard to maintain parity and safety, by verifying that the entire vehicle, as assembled, complies with the rulebook.
In the wake of these findings, Ryan Preece and Joey Logano’s triumphant day quickly soured, as they were demoted to 38th and 39th place finishes, respectively. Each received only one point, and this disqualification led to a reshuffling of the top positions at Talladega, with Kyle Larson now second and William Byron third.
The shock of events leaves both teams with the option to appeal the disqualifications, typically processing before the next race. Fans wasted no time expressing their sentiments on the disqualifications, with majority leaning toward disappointment and resentment.
Disappointing as it was for the fans and racing teams, it’s important to bear in mind the significance of these rules. Are they ruinous to a fair race, or are they a necessity in maintaining integrity and safety – a debate worth having. Nonetheless, the aftermath of the event stands as a stark reminder of the unyielding nature of these guidelines, especially as we look forward to the races on the horizon.
