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The NASCAR Cup Series returned to Talladega Superspeedway on Sunday for the third superspeedway event of the 2025 season. While the race delivered thrilling action, it ended with controversy as two top finishers were disqualified following post-race inspections.
Ford drivers Joey Logano and Ryan Preece initially crossed! However, after the race, both cars were found to have violations and therefore penalties against them.
NASCAR disqualified Logano and Preece as their cars were found non-compliant on account of rear spoilers-related issues.
Details on Joey Logano's Penalty-
NASCAR cited Logano for violating Section 14.5.8.E regarding the suspension of fastener braces employed in events on superspeedways. Besides, Section 14.1.P deemed concerning General Vehicle Assembly came up, stating that "Every fastener must always be fastened properly in the Event".
The No. 22 Ford Mustang was found to bear an unattached or loose bolt in the rear spoiler hence leading to the constitution of disqualification against Logano by NASCAR.
Such was found in the rear spoiler area for Ryan Preece: an "unapproved shim" setup. It was allowed for two shims, but he probably placed three. Therein breaches technical rules set by NASCAR for the No. 60 Ford of Preece.
Thus, Preece fell to 38th in the finish order, and Logano ended up 'scoring' 39th. Both teams can still appeal the penalties metered out; however, no formal appeal has been filed so far.
The Official Talladega Final Results: NASCAR Cup Series, April 27, 2025.
Altered were disqualifications from the standings finalizing the Jack Links 500 at Talladega and introduced playoff points that left all teams heading into the next race with momentum.
Team Penske Issues Statement on Disqualification
Shortly after NASCAR’s announcement, Team Penske issued a public statement regarding Logano’s penalty:
"The No. 22 Team Penske Ford Mustang was disqualified following post-race inspection at Talladega today," the statement opened.
"One of the 18 bolts on the surface of the spoiler that connect to the base was found to be loose, and NASCAR penalized the team as a result. This was not intentional and happened throughout the course of the race event."
Team Penske concluded, "Team Penske accepts the disqualification."
NASCAR Takes Cars for Further Inspection at R&D Center
In addition to the penalties, NASCAR is transporting several cars back to its Research & Development Center for more thorough technical evaluations. These cars will undergo full chassis inspections as well as engine dyno testing:
- Kyle Larson, No. 5 Hendrick Motorsports Chevrolet
- Josh Berry, No. 21 Wood Brothers Racing Ford
Meanwhile, other cars will undergo only engine dyno tests, with team representatives present during the evaluations:
- Ty Dillon, No. 10 Kaulig Racing Chevrolet
- Bubba Wallace, No. 23 23XI Racing Toyota
This additional scrutiny underscores NASCAR’s commitment to maintaining a level playing field, especially at high-stakes superspeedway races where aerodynamic setups are critical.
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