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Kyle Busch’s hopes for strong start to Sunday’s Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series race were dealt a blow when his Joe Gibbs Racing No. 18 Toyota lost a wheel after his first pit stop at Dover International Speedway.
Busch started first after winning his first Coors Light Pole Award of the year, and he led the field onto pit road when the yellow flag flew for the first time in the AAA 400 Drive for Autism on Lap 16. Busch left pit road first, but his crew’s haste left his car’s left-rear wheel improperly attached.
The wheel dislodged shortly after pit exit, causing damage to the car’s left-rear fender as Busch nursed his car (with three tires) back around the track. Busch was forced to make an extra stop during the caution period for repairs and restarted the race in 37th place.
The miscue could mean penalties this week for crew chief Adam Stevens and the JGR No. 18 team. The NASCAR Rule Book suggests a four-race suspension for crew chief, tire changer and tire carrier for a detached wheel.
This story will be updated.