NASCAR Truck Series team Hendrick Motorsports (HMS) had a candid response after Chase Briscoe’s penalty was overturned. The reaction came in response to an update shared on social media regarding Briscoe’s successful appeal.
HMS responded with a single-word tweet:
“Bruh.”
The tweet was a reply to motorsports journalist Jeff Gluck, who reported that Briscoe had won his appeal and had his penalty fully overturned. Gluck explained that the National Motorsports Appeals Panel ruled the issue was caused by the spoiler base attachment process, not intentional modification of a single-source part. He stated:
“The panel believes that the elongation of some of the holes on the No. 19 Cup car spoiler base is caused by the process of attaching that specific spoiler base to the rear deck and not modification of the single source part.”
Background of the Incident
Chase Briscoe, driving the No. 19 Joe Gibbs Racing Toyota, was penalized after the Daytona 500 when NASCAR found irregularities in the spoiler base. The L2-level penalty included:
- A 100-point deduction for Briscoe
- A 10-playoff-point penalty
- A $100,000 fine for Joe Gibbs Racing
- A four-race suspension for crew chief James Small
However, the appeals panel determined the issue stemmed from the attachment process, not intentional tampering, leading to the penalty’s reversal. Joe Gibbs Racing owner Joe Gibbs expressed gratitude, stating:
“We appreciate the process NASCAR has in place that allowed us the opportunity to present our explanation. We are thankful for the ruling by the National Motorsports Appeals Panel. It’s great news for our No. 19 team and everyone at Joe Gibbs Racing. We look forward to focusing on the remainder of our season starting this weekend in Phoenix.”
With the penalties rescinded, Briscoe, who was at the bottom of the standings, has been reinstated to 15th place with 72 points. The decision also restores Joe Gibbs Racing’s owner points, which could be crucial later in the season.
Chase Briscoe’s Reaction to the Overturned Penalty
Fox Sports journalist Bob Pockrass confirmed the panel’s decision, stating:
“JGR/Chase Briscoe WIN the appeal to the penalty issued after the Daytona 500 for holes in the spoiler base being altered. His 100 points restored, no suspension for James Small, and no fine to the team.”
Briscoe expressed his relief and excitement on social media, thanking NASCAR for the appeal process and his team for their support. He said:
“Biggest points day of my career! We’re back! Thank you to NASCAR for giving us the option to show our evidence, and a huge thank you to everyone at Joe Gibbs Racing who put in countless hours to put everything together.”
With the penalty overturned, Briscoe jumps to 15th in the Cup Series standings. His crew chief, James Small, will also return immediately for the upcoming race at Phoenix Raceway. The appeals panel, consisting of Dixon Johnston, Hunter Nickell, and Cathy Rice, made the final decision, leaving NASCAR with no further options to challenge the ruling.
