Pennzoil 400
Kyle Larson dominated the Pennzoil 400 at Las Vegas Motor Speedway. The Hendrick Motorsports driver qualified second, won the opening stages, and finished the day in victory lane. But, it was not without a fight. In the closing laps, Tyler Reddick gave Larson a run for his money. However, Larson cashed out before Reddick hit the jackpot.
Additionally, it was a race filled with pit road penalties and tire issues. Chris Buescher exited the race early after a loose lug nut caused his tire to come off. In turn, the RFK Racing driver slammed the outside wall hard, forcing a red flag for repairs.
Chris Buescher is done for the day in Vegas. His wheel fell off, which is counterproductive. https://t.co/aoW1P0pxwF pic.twitter.com/x2KcXpLjNC
— FOX: NASCAR (@NASCARONFOX) March 3, 2024
Rich MARvelous Move of the Race
Speaking of tire issues, the Rich MARvelous Move of the Race goes to a NASCAR Cup Series crew member who quite possibly prevented a repeat of that incident.
Kyle Busch came to his team for fresh tires and fuel under caution on Lap 158. However, a speedy stop got extended when the No. 8 front tire changer noticed the right front lug nut was not secure.
The tire changer had to quickly assess the situation. Should he send Busch back on track to likely face a wreck, a DNF, or even possible penalties? Or keep him in his pit stall a few more seconds to tighten the lug nut, but lose spots on track?
Ultimately, he decided to get the lug tight. Unfortunately for Busch, this lengthy stop was compounded on top of other pit road penalties.
While the Richard Childress Racing driver did finish the race, it was in a disappointing 26th.
