Unexpected difficulties beset Kyle Larson’s recent effort at Pocono Raceway’s Great American Getaway 400, which resulted in a 13th-place finish that was significantly impacted by a contentious pit road speeding penalty.
After 21 races, Larson now trails Chase Elliott by three points in the driver standings. Specifically, the Pocono pit road penalty dealt a serious setback to Larson’s campaign.
With five races left in the season, Larson called the punishment an unexpected surprise as the series entered a crucial period. According to Essentially Sports, he said.
“I’m still unsure. I suppose I should speak with the team. It seems to me that section 7 has changed from what it was in the past. It’s a little unfortunate, but I didn’t press the issue.
I didn’t go above our limit. Like, I never imagined that I would drive too fast.” Larson discussed how the penalty would affect his racing plan and possible result, saying:
“I was shocked, then, when they announced over the radio that we would be speeding. It’s unfortunate that you are unaware of the outcome of the race.
There, you’re going to restart the leader; this is where clean air is crucial. Though I’m not sure if I would have prevailed, it’s clear that I would have placed higher than 13th. Unfortunately, things are as they are.”
