Carson Hocevar secured victory with a strategic two-tire call that propelled him to the front of the pack. John Hunter Nemechek nabbed the second spot, securing his place in the main event. Notable early exits included Erik Jones, Ty Dillon, and Zane Smith.
For pole-sitter Shane van Gisbergen and Ryan Preece, missed opportunities plagued their performance. Noah Gragson clinched the Fan Vote, earning the last spot in the All-Star Race grid after a tumultuous Open race.
Van Gisbergen dominated early on, but encountered challenges with Nemechek and a power steering issue affecting Gragson. Hocevar and McDowell’s intense battle for the transfer spot added drama to the race, while Todd Gilliland faced setbacks with a flat tire.
SVG’s decision not to take two tires during the pit stop saw him lose positions, allowing Preece to make remarkable progress. Despite an error sending him to the rear, Preece showcased determination, eventually securing the final transfer spot.
Subsequent incidents involving Herbst and McDowell added to the race’s intensity, culminating in Hocevar and Nemechek finishing 1-2. Post-race tensions flared as SVG and Gilliland engaged in on-track contact and a heated discussion on pit road.
