March 5, 2025 – NASCAR has issued suspensions to two crew members from Kyle Larson’s No. 5 Hendrick Motorsports team following a lost wheel incident during the race at Circuit of the Americas (COTA). This penalty falls under NASCAR’s strict safety regulations regarding the secure attachment of wheels during races.
The Incident
During the event at COTA, Larson’s Chevrolet Camaro lost a wheel on track, triggering an automatic penalty under NASCAR’s rulebook. The sanction is designed to ensure the safety of drivers, teams, and spectators, as an unsecured wheel can pose a significant hazard on high-speed circuits.
The lost wheel incident led to a caution, disrupting the race and impacting multiple drivers’ strategies. While Larson managed to finish the race, the consequences for his crew were immediate.
NASCAR’s Decision
Under NASCAR’s rules, a detached wheel during competition results in a four-race suspension for the responsible pit crew members, typically the tire changer and the jackman. This regulation aims to hold teams accountable for proper pit stop execution and ensure that all components are securely fastened before cars return to the track.
Following the investigation, NASCAR officially suspended the two No. 5 crew members for four races, a standard penalty in such cases. Hendrick Motorsports has yet to announce replacement crew members who will serve in their absence.
Impact on Larson and Hendrick Motorsports
The penalty puts added pressure on the No. 5 team as they navigate the upcoming races without key pit crew personnel. Pit stops play a crucial role in race outcomes, and any misstep can be costly in NASCAR’s highly competitive field.
Despite the setback, Kyle Larson remains one of the strongest competitors in the Cup Series. His ability to adapt, along with Hendrick Motorsports’ depth in talent, will be tested as the team works through the crew changes.
Looking Ahead
Larson and his team will aim to minimize the impact of the suspensions as they continue their pursuit of victories and a strong position in the playoff standings. Meanwhile, NASCAR’s enforcement of safety rules remains firm, emphasizing the importance of precision and accountability in every race.
Stay tuned for further updates as Hendrick Motorsports announces its interim crew lineup and prepares for the next races on the schedule.
