A Crash That Stopped the Action
The NASCAR Cup Series event at Michigan International Speedway was halted with 51 laps remaining as officials worked to repair a damaged SAFER barrier.
During a restart on the 148th circuit, Chase Elliott’s No. 9 Chevrolet slid up the track and made contact with Christopher Bell’s No. 20 Toyota, sending Bell’s car into the outside wall.
The impact severely deformed the energy‑absorbing barrier, prompting a red‑flag period while track crews addressed the damage.
Both drivers emerged unharmed and were taken to the infield care center for evaluation, where Elliott later apologized to Bell, acknowledging that the maneuver was his fault.
At the moment the caution was displayed, William Byron held the lead, while Daniel Suarez, Ross Chastain, Carson Hocevar and Kyle Larson occupied the next four positions.
Connor Zilisch, a rookie, endured a tough outing, crashing twice in the opening eight laps and ultimately finishing last in the 37‑car field, a result that continues a streak of finishes outside the top 30.
The series will next travel to Pocono Raceway, where the event is scheduled for June 14, giving teams a chance to reset after the Michigan incident.