Anthony Alfredo was shedding tears of joy after qualifying for his third Daytona 500 through the Daytona Duels on Thursday night, but things turned to heartbreak after his result was disqualified for a technical violation discovered during the post-race inspection.
Alfredo’s Beard Motorsports No. 62 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 had a loose transaxle cooling hose that needs to be attached at all times, according to the rules.
“We don’t say what the intent is, but these parts have to be fastened properly,” NASCAR Cup Series Managing Director Brad Moran said after the decision.
“Unfortunately, this one piece wasn’t on the right side. There was also another hose disconnected for driver cooling, which affects airflow. Superspeedway, we all know the importance of that.”
The ruling isn’t appealable, because the Duels are consider qualifying events. Alfredo’s Daytona 500 berth will go to B.J. McLeod, who was the second-highest finishing open driver in Duel 2, which was won by Chase Elliott.
Joey Logano won Duel 1 in an overtime finish, when Casey Mears qualified for the Daytona 500 as the open driver from the race.
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