In the post-race inspection process after the Ally 400 at Nashville Superspeedway on Sunday, June 20; it was discovered that the number nine Hendrick Motorsports car driven by Chase Elliot was in violation of the lug nut rule.

It is not uncommon in a lug nut violation for a car to have one lug nut improperly secured; but Elliott’s car had FIVE lug nuts improperly secured.

As a result, NASCAR has disqualified Elliott from the race. Not only did Elliott lose his 13th place finishing spot; but also, lost his stage one win and playoff point.

As a result of the DQ, Kurt Busch has been awarded the stage one win with its one playoff point. All drivers that finished behind Elliott will move up one spot in the official race results.

Elliott has been listed as the last place driver, behind Quin Houff and Ryan Blaney who departed the race early due to accidents.

Lug nut violations also bring fines and sometimes ejections of crew personnel. Any further penalties will be assessed in the penalty report on Tuesday.


Martin Truex Jr’s number 19 Joe Gibbs Racing car was also found to have a lug nut improperly secured, the team will face any penalties in the penalty report.