Michael McDowell crashes late, finishes 26th in Texas NASCAR race

Michael McDowell came close to winning the NASCAR Cup Series race at Texas Motor Speedway but crashed out with just a few laps remaining, ultimately finishing 26th. After a strategic two-tire pit stop vaulted him into the lead, McDowell held off challenges from Joey Logano and Ryan Blaney in the closing laps. Logano passed him with four laps to go, and as McDowell attempted to defend his position, he lost control after Blaney moved ahead, resulting in a crash into the barriers. McDowell expressed disappointment for his team but took pride in their performance and the opportunity to contend for the win, despite acknowledging that his aggressive defense may have contributed to the wreck. The race would have marked Spire Motorsports' first Cup Series victory since 2019, but instead, McDowell continues his winless streak for the season. Logano ultimately secured the win, followed by Ross Chastain and Blaney.