RFK Racing appeals NASCAR penalty for No. 17 Mustang after being hit with severe sanctions following a race at Kansas Speedway. The team, which includes driver Chris Buescher and is co-owned by champion Brad Keselowski, challenged the ruling in hopes of reversing consequences that could dramatically shape their season’s trajectory.
Following the discovery of an illegal front bumper cover on the No. 17 Ford Mustang, NASCAR imposed a series of penalties. These included a 60-point deduction applied to both the driver and the team, a $75,000 fine, and the suspension of crew chief Scott Graves for two races. The heavy sanctions placed the team under pressure and pushed Chris Buescher and his crew into the racing spotlight, forcing them to respond swiftly.
As the penalties took effect, crew chief Scott Graves began his suspension during the All-Star Race at North Wilkesboro Speedway. This prompted substitute crew chief Doug Randolph to lead the team, while Buescher managed to finish in 10th place despite the disruption. Brad Keselowski, meanwhile, started the race from pole position but encountered misfortune, crashing into the wall on lap 176 and failing to finish as hoped.
The team issued an official statement saying,
After a thorough review of the penalties issued to the No. 17 Ford Mustang, RFK Racing has decided to appeal NASCAR’s decision. We respect NASCAR’s commitment to fair competition and appreciate the opportunity to engage in the appeals process.” – RFK Racing, Team
Buescher’s recent results reflect the impact of the penalties, as he has now slipped to 24th in the point standings. In contrast, Keselowski, whose season has also been turbulent, has recorded only one top-five finish and six top-10 results across 12 races. These setbacks have increased the stakes for the appeal, especially with the Coca-Cola 600—an important race on the calendar—just ahead at Charlotte Motor Speedway.
The unresolved status of Scott Graves’ suspension means his participation in the critical Coca-Cola 600 remains uncertain. This high-profile race, scheduled for May 25 at 6:00 p.m. ET on Prime Video, presents a pivotal opportunity for RFK Racing to recoup lost momentum, pending the outcome of the appeal.
Brad Keselowski acknowledged logistical delays in the appeal, sharing,
“There’s been a lot going on. I mean, honestly, I was traveling most of the week with media appearances, sponsor stuff, and I haven’t got all of it dialed in yet to fully understand.” – Brad Keselowski, Driver/Co-Owner
Adding to the team’s challenges, recent addition Ryan Preece and his fellow drivers have amassed 10 Did-Not-Finish results this season, underscoring the uphill battle faced by RFK Racing. The string of obstacles has tested the resilience and strategic focus of both drivers and crew members.
As anticipation builds around RFK Racing’s efforts to overturn NASCAR’s decision, the wider racing community watches closely. The consequences for Chris Buescher, Scott Graves, and the entire organization could influence their standings and competitive spirit through the remainder of the season. Both fans and industry observers remain eager for a resolution that will determine the team’s direction as they approach important events, especially the looming Coca-Cola 600 at Charlotte Motor Speedway, with continued focus on performance and compliance.
