Saturday’s NASCAR Cup Series proceedings at Texas Motor Speedway took an early twist as two drivers were penalized ahead of the green flag. Kyle Larson and Jeb Burton were both ordered to start from the rear of the field due to separate infractions during the final stages of qualifying and pit road activity.
Kyle Larson, who had been poised for a strong start, was sent to the rear of the field after an uncontrolled tire violation was assessed to his team. The penalty, a result of a tire rolling beyond the team’s pit box during qualifying prep, is a setback for the Hendrick Motorsports driver, who has been a consistent contender this season.
Meanwhile, Jeb Burton also received a rear-of-field penalty, this one for pitting outside of the designated pit box. It’s a rare and costly mistake in a tightly controlled environment, and it compromises Burton’s chances of gaining early track position in a field stacked with competitive talent.
Both drivers will now have to work their way through the pack on a track where clean air and track position often dictate the flow of the race. For Larson, who has the car and experience to rally back, the challenge may serve as motivation. For Burton, it’s a tougher climb — but one not unfamiliar to underdog teams.
As always, NASCAR’s strict enforcement of rules on pit road serves as a reminder that every detail matters in the race to victory lane.
