The NASCAR Cup Series event at Michigan International Speedway was abruptly stopped when Chase Elliott's No. 9 Chevrolet slid into Christopher Bell's No. 20 Toyota, inflicting serious damage on the SAFER barrier that lines the track.
Both drivers emerged unscathed and were escorted to an ambulance for routine medical evaluation, after which Elliott publicly apologized to Bell, acknowledging that the incident was his fault.
At the moment the red flag was displayed, William Byron held the lead, but series officials paused the competition to allow crews to repair the compromised barrier before racing could resume.
Connor Zilisch endured a difficult outing, crashing twice during the session and ultimately finishing last in the 37‑car field; the performance added to a string of finishes outside the top 30 and left the rookie still searching for his first Cup Series top‑10.
Looking Ahead to Pocono
The series will next convene at Pocono Raceway on June 14, where last year's winner, Chase Briscoe, will look to build on his victory with Joe Gibbs Racing. Fans can expect another competitive weekend on the 2.5‑mile triangular layout.