Chris Buescher’s NASCAR L1 penalty at the Kansas race was recently challenged before the National Motorsports Appeals Panel, which resulted in the reduction of the points penalty but upheld key sanctions against the team. The decision comes as the result of rule violations involving the front bumper cover and exhaust panel following the Kansas Speedway weekend.
Appeal Results in Lowered Penalties but Suspension Remains
The National Motorsports Appeals Panel reviewed the initial penalty issued on May 15, 2025, which targeted Chris Buescher, RFK Racing, and crew chief Scott Graves in the NASCAR Cup Series. The original sanctions included a two-race suspension for Graves, a $75,000 fine for the team, and the deduction of 60 championship points, plus five Playoff points, from both driver and owner.
The violations were connected to the 2025 NASCAR Rule Book, specifically Section 14.1.C regarding overall assembled vehicle rules, Section 14.5.4.G dealing with the front bumper cover, and Section 14.1.2.B detailing the engineering change log and exhaust cover panel requirements. Officials determined that the team exceeded the permissible reinforcement on the front bumper and noted issues with the exhaust panel trimming.
After evaluating testimonies and evidence, the Appeals Panel confirmed the two-race suspension for Scott Graves remained, but the team’s points penalty was reduced. The panel explained its reasoning, stating,
“The panel concluded that NASCAR met its burden of proof regarding the reinforcement of the front bumper cover but did not meet it regarding the trimming of the exhaust panel cover. The rule book regarding the exhaust panel trimming lacked specificity on the amount trimmed or not trimmed. Accordingly, the Panel reduced the owner and driver points penalty from 60 to 30 points.”
—National Motorsports Appeals Panel
Details of the Original Infraction and NASCAR’s Justification
The pitfall for the No. 17 Ford Mustang arose after NASCAR’s routine post-race inspection at its R&D Center. During checks, officials noted that the reinforcement behind the car’s front bumper foam exceeded the allowable two-inch limit, directly violating the parameters set by NASCAR.
Addressing the rationale behind the penalty, NASCAR Cup Series managing director Brad Moran offered clarity in a recent podcast, stating,
“Unfortunately, the No. 17 did not meet the rule and had a larger area than what is permitted to be bonded into the nose piece,”
—Brad Moran, NASCAR Cup Series managing director. He added,
“They can work in that area, but they went too far would be the simplest terms of putting it.”
—Brad Moran, NASCAR Cup Series managing director
As a result of these findings, NASCAR initially penalized the team by withholding 60 owner points, 60 driver points, and five Playoff points, in addition to the financial penalty and crew chief’s suspension.
RFK Racing’s Response and Future Steps
RFK Racing responded immediately to the penalty, expressing intent to challenge the ruling stemming from the AdventHealth 400 at Kansas Speedway. Importantly, the team chose not to request a deferral of the crew chief’s suspension, a move that positioned Scott Graves to miss both the All-Star Race and the upcoming Coca-Cola 600 at Charlotte Motor Speedway if the appeals were unsuccessful.
In a formal statement, RFK Racing directly addressed NASCAR’s ruling, saying,
“After a thorough review of the penalties issued to the No. 17 Ford Mustang, RFK Racing has decided to appeal NASCAR’s decision,”
—RFK Racing Statement. The team also commented,
“We respect NASCAR’s commitment to fair competition and appreciate the opportunity to engage in the appeals process.”
—RFK Racing Statement
The National Motorsports Appeals Panel that reviewed the case consisted of Tom DeLoach, Cary Tharrington, and Kevin Whitaker. Their decision provided Buescher and RFK Racing with partial relief in points penalties but maintained the suspension and monetary fine.
Looking Ahead: Final Appeals Option and Competitive Impact
The appellant is still afforded the opportunity for further recourse through the National Motorsports Final Appeals Officer, in line with NASCAR’s rule book procedures. Should RFK Racing pursue this final appeal, the team hopes to seek additional reductions or reversals in penalties that could affect their season’s trajectory.
For Chris Buescher, the L1 penalty at the Kansas race not only affects his points standing but also injects uncertainty into the team’s strategy amid a tightly contested NASCAR Cup Series season. The episode highlights the ongoing scrutiny on technical compliance in stock car racing, raising the stakes for crews striving for a competitive edge while adhering closely to the sport’s evolving regulations.
As the season progresses, the outcome of the appeal process may shape RFK Racing’s approach, with Chris Buescher working to recover from the setback and continue his Playoff ambitions. The case underscores the critical role of enforcement panels in balancing fair play and competitive innovation in NASCAR.
