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LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - OCTOBER 11: Brad Keselowski, driver of the #6 Nexlizet Ford, looks on during practice for the NASCAR Cup Series South Point 400 at Las Vegas Motor Speedway on October 11, 2025 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Chris Graythen/Getty Images)

The decision by NASCAR regarding Ryan Preece emerged as one of the most significant stories from the Cup Series weekend at Texas Motor Speedway, after officials imposed a major penalty on the RFK Racing driver. NASCAR issued a 25-point deduction and a $50,000 fine after contact between Preece and Ty Gibbs during the Würth 400.

Officials said the penalty violated Sections 4.3 and 4.4.A section of the NASCAR rule book, which covers actions involving the wrecking or spinning of another car. The incident occurred on lap 101 when Preece’s No. 60 Ford collided with Gibbs’ No. 54 Toyota as they entered Turn 3.

Gibbs crashed into the outside wall and finished 36th after race-ending damage. NASCAR later reviewed video, radio communication, and vehicle data before making the decision.

NASCAR Cup Series Penalty Puts RFK Racing Under Pressure

The NASCAR penalty quickly changed the NASCAR Cup Series standings. Preece dropped from 12th to 13th in points and now sits only 38 points above the playoff cutline as the postseason battle continues to tighten.

RFK Racing confirmed it will appeal the NASCAR penalty through the National Motorsports Appeals Panel. The appeal will allow the team to challenge both the ruling and the severity of the punishment.

Brad Keselowski addressed the controversy and defended NASCAR’s appeals process while discussing the difficult role officials face during races.

“I don’t get surprised very much, Bob, so I wouldn’t say I’m surprised. I’m glad there’s an appeal process. Ryan will go through that whenever it’s scheduled. I’ve been part of a couple of them before, and generally I think they’re pretty fair.”

Keselowski said the process gives teams and drivers a fair opportunity when disagreements happen.

“It’s good that the sport has something like that when there are differences of opinion. I appreciate the process and wish Ryan the best.”

NASCAR officials reportedly used several pieces of evidence, including team radio communication and race data, to determine intent in the incident involving Ryan Preece and Ty Gibbs.

Brad Keselowski Opens Up on NASCAR Officials and Tough Decisions

Brad Keselowski also discussed the challenge NASCAR officials face when deciding whether aggressive racing becomes retaliation. He explained that the standard can shift depending on the situation during a race weekend.

“The line is always moving. I’ve done a lot of jobs in the sport. The one job I haven’t done, and probably never will, is be a NASCAR official. That’s a tough job.”

Keselowski suggested NASCAR could benefit from race stewards to help with difficult rulings during NASCAR Cup Series events.

“I think you saw a difficult call yesterday in the Truck Series with the restart zones. Those are really tough calls. I’m glad I don’t have to make them, but I respect their position and how they’re trying to do what they think is best for the sport.”

NASCAR Penalty Appeal Could Affect Future NASCAR Rules

The NASCAR penalty drew even more attention because officials did not penalize a separate late-race incident involving Kyle Busch and John Hunter Nemechek during the same Texas Motor Speedway event.

NASCAR reportedly reviewed differences in available evidence, including radio audio and vehicle data, before deciding the two incidents were not handled the same way.

As the season continues, the appeal involving Ryan Preece could shape how NASCAR officials review retaliation cases later in the season. The decision may also influence how NASCAR handles driver communication, intent, and future NASCAR penalties across the Cup Series.