“It caught our radar”: NASCAR to address Trackhouse Racing Team over gateway grass incident

After last weekend’s NASCAR Cup Series race at World Wide Technology Raceway at Gateway, the Trackhouse Racing Team has landed under scrutiny. Drivers Ross Chastain and Shane van Gisbergen, both in playoff contention, drove through the grass during the cool-down lap after the checkered flag.

NASCAR officials have since confirmed that the maneuver, unusual and questionable in nature, has drawn their attention and will be addressed directly with the team.Brad Moran, NASCAR Cup Series managing director, said the incident “caught our radar” and emphasized that discussions will take place with Trackhouse management and their crew chiefs. The move raised eyebrows across the paddock, with speculation that it might have been an attempt to add weight to the cars before inspection.

With playoff stakes high and rules around post-race conduct clearly defined, NASCAR is determined to ensure all teams understand the implications going forward.The issue highlights how even small actions in the cool-down lap can spark regulatory questions in the Cup Series, especially during the postseason. NASCAR will clarify rules for all teams this week and plans to tighten enforcement beginning with the upcoming race at Bristol.

NASCAR to address Trackhouse Racing Team over post-race grass incident at gateway

After drivers Shane van Gisbergen and Ross Chastain crashed into the grass during the cool-down lap after Sunday's race at Gateway, NASCAR officials are getting ready to meet with the Trackhouse Racing Team. Immediately after crossing the finish line, both drivers, who are presently vying for a spot in the playoffs, veered into the dirt as they entered the Turn 3 access lane.

The sanctioning body is taking the issue seriously, Cup Series managing director Brad Moran revealed on SiriusXM NASCAR Radio.

NASCAR has particular regulations in place to stop activities that can affect post-race inspections, he said. Moran admitted that the action might be seen as a ploy to make the cars heavier before required inspections, but he did not specifically blame the team for any misconduct.The incident matters because Chastain and van Gisbergen, despite finishing 24th and 25th, respectively, were still subject to full inspection as playoff participants.

Chastain left Gateway 19 points above the elimination line, while van Gisbergen is 15 points below it. Any inspection irregularities could have serious implications for their postseason hopes.Moran said NASCAR will not only meet with Trackhouse but will also send a clear message to all Cup teams this week about what is acceptable during post-race procedures. “We’ll make it pretty clear to them, moving forward starting at Bristol, what that means,” Moran explained.Although the Trackhouse Racing Team has been a growing power in the Cup Series, this act unjustly brings them into the public eye. Particularly during the crucial playoff season, NASCAR's handling of the matter demonstrates the organization's dedication to upholding justice and honesty. Teams will be careful as Bristol approaches because even their post-race behavior is being closely watched at this point.