NASCAR Discusses Trackhouse Grass Excursions After Gateway Race

After the NASCAR Cup Series race at World Wide Technology Raceway, NASCAR has raised concerns about Trackhouse Racing drivers Ross Chastain and Shane Van Gisbergen driving through the grass on their cooldown laps. NASCAR Managing Director Brad Moran confirmed the sanctioning body will discuss the matter with Trackhouse management and crew chiefs, emphasizing that such actions could violate rules and put teams in serious jeopardy. The behavior sparked speculation that the drivers aimed to add weight to their cars by picking up grass or debris before post-race inspections, a strategy that could affect car compliance. NASCAR plans to clarify rules on this issue to all teams, starting with the upcoming Bristol race, where grass is absent but the warning will still apply to other tracks. Industry voices, including fellow drivers and commentators, noted that similar tactics are known in other racing series, though NASCAR has not yet penalized Trackhouse. This development highlights NASCAR's focus on maintaining fair competition and safety, particularly as the playoffs intensify.