Rick Ware Racing faced significant challenges during the Charlotte Roval 400, wrapping up a difficult weekend as they continue to compete in the NASCAR Cup Series. This Rick Ware Racing update highlights their performance and provides context as the team moves toward the next event in the series.
Van Gisbergen Dominates at the Roval
Shane van Gisbergen, representing Trackhouse Racing in a Chevrolet, claimed victory in an impressive fashion at the Bank of America Roval 400. Not only did van Gisbergen capture the race win, but he also secured the Stage 1 victory, further solidifying his standing this season. Ryan Blaney of Team Penske brought home the win in Stage 2, driving a Ford.
Van Gisbergen’s performance was commanding, marking his sixth career NASCAR Cup Series win, his fifth victory of the current season, and notably, his first on the Roval circuit. His finishing margin over runner-up Kyle Larson was more than fifteen seconds, underscoring his dominance throughout the event.
Rick Ware Racing Results and Challenges
Rick Ware Racing saw Cody Ware start from the 32nd position. Ware completed 108 of the 109 laps, ultimately finishing in 34th place. This result kept Ware in 36th position in the point standings, totaling 212 points. Despite the result, Ware and the team demonstrated resilience amid stiff competition and unpredictable race conditions.
There were a total of three caution periods during the race, impacting the strategy for all involved teams, as ten laps were run under the yellow flag. Of the thirty-seven drivers who started the race, twenty-six managed to stay on the lead lap, highlighting the demands and complexity of road course racing in the Cup Series.
Driver Reflections on Race Day
I knew there was a lot to learn going into this weekend. I felt like the preparation was there with the sim sessions, and it showed in the race. We were able to make passes with the Parts Plus/Pronto Auto Service Center Ford Mustang, especially with tire wear and how other teams managed that factor. We thought we had a good strategy by saving tires for the final stage, but it just didn’t fall in our favor.
– Cody Ware, driver of the No. 51 Parts Plus / Pronto Auto Service Center Ford Mustang Dark Horse
Looking Ahead to Las Vegas
The NASCAR Cup Series continues next with the South Point 400 at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, set for Sunday, October 12. As the seventh event in the ten-race NASCAR Playoffs, the competition remains fierce. Fans can catch all the high-speed action beginning at 5:30 p.m. EDT, with television coverage on USA and radio through SiriusXM NASCAR Radio. Rick Ware Racing will look to regroup and improve as the season progresses, with drivers and teams determined to secure stronger finishes in the postseason stretch.