The weekend at Richmond Raceway began with a technical hiccup for the No. 20 Joe Gibbs Racing Toyota driven by Christopher Bell and the No. 51 Rick Ware Racing Chevrolet fielded by Cody Ware. Both cars initially failed the pre‑race technical inspection, forcing each team to repeat the process.
After a third attempt, the vehicles passed, sparing their drivers from the most severe penalty that would have relegated them to the back of the field. However, the early setbacks cost the teams valuable pit‑stall selection time, with Bell losing the chance to claim a preferred spot in the garage.
Crew‑chief dismissals and lineup adjustments
The failed inspections triggered the ejection of JGR car chief Clay Chris Sherwood and RWR car chief Dave Jone for the remainder of the weekend. Their absence reshaped the teams' operational dynamics just hours before the green flag was scheduled to drop.
Ryan Blaney capitalized on the turbulence, securing pole position for the Cup Series race. This marked the fourth occasion this season that the No. 12 Team Penske Ford led the field to the start, a personal high for the driver.
Adding another twist, Christopher Bell was slated to compete in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series on Friday, only to see that event postponed to Saturday due to inclement weather. Consequently, Leland Honeyman Jr. was called in to replace him in the No. 62 Toyota.