Kyle Larson’s No. 5 Hendrick Motorsports Chevrolet officially passed NASCAR’s post-Talladega inspection at the Research and Development Center in North Carolina, confirming his second-place finish from Sunday’s race. This outcome was revealed after both Larson’s car and Josh Berry’s No. 21 Wood Brothers Ford underwent rigorous checks and engine dyno tests following the dramatic events at Talladega Superspeedway.
NASCAR took the cars back for a detailed inspection to ensure all competitors had complied with regulations, especially after a tense race in which multiple post-race disqualifications had already shaken the official results. According to Bob Pockrass of FOX Sports, both Larson and Berry’s vehicles were found compliant, a relief for teams seeking clarity after a turbulent finish. Meanwhile, Bubba Wallace’s No. 23 and Ty Dillon’s No. 10 were examined purely for engine testing, with updates on those pending.
The disruptive nature of post-race inspections became clear when Ryan Preece, who initially crossed the line in second, was disqualified for unapproved shims in his Ford’s rear spoiler. Joey Logano, finishing fifth, also lost his result after violations regarding spoiler braces and general vehicle assembly rules. These contentious disqualifications moved Kyle Larson into the second spot in the final tally, an upgrade made official only after his car cleared the thorough technical assessments.
This development carries significant weight for both Kyle Larson and Hendrick Motorsports. Not only does it cement a strong result in a fiercely competitive Cup Series, but it also demonstrates the rigorous standards applied by NASCAR in preserving fairness and integrity. The sequence of inspections and strict enforcement underscores a climate of tension and continued scrutiny, leaving teams and fans bracing for further updates on other cars tested. With Larson’s finish confirmed, the focus now shifts to the ongoing championship battle and whether these tightening procedures will impact future outcomes.
