NASCAR issues speed warnings at Talladega during Cup Series race

During the Cup Series race at Talladega, NASCAR officials issued warnings to a large portion of the field regarding minimum speed violations. Race control notified teams via instant message that several cars were failing to maintain the required pace, which is set within 12.5 percent of the pole time. NASCAR vice president of racing communications Mike Forde stated that the warning was intended to prevent the need for black flags, noting that the organization aims to keep cars on the track for sponsors and fans rather than disqualifying them.

The speed issues were largely attributed to fuel-saving strategies employed by most of the field during the opening stage. While most drivers slowed down to conserve fuel, the three RFK Racing drivers—Brad Keselowski, Chris Buescher, and Ryan Preece—maintained a high pace. This three-car drafting line allowed them to break away from the pack, eventually building a lead of more than 40 seconds and threatening to put much of the field a lap down.