After finishing eighth at Kansas Speedway, Chris Buescher’s No. 17 RFK Racing Ford Mustang faced further inspection at the NASCAR R&D Center due to a rule violation related to the front bumper cover. The team’s violation led to a $75,000 fine, a two-race suspension for crew chief Scott Graves, and point deductions for Buescher.
Buescher, who is winless this season after 12 races, was initially 12th in the playoff standings but now drops to 24th due to the penalty. He went from being 33 points above the cut-line to now being 27 points behind, with a deficit in playoff points as well. His next two races, including the All-Star Race at North Wilkesboro and the Coca-Cola 600, will be without Graves on the pit box.
Although Buescher’s playoff position has taken a hit, he will aim to regain momentum and secure his spot in the NASCAR playoffs through consistent performances in the coming races.
