Joey Logano was set to start the Cup Series race at Atlanta Motor Speedway from the front row but now his chance to contend may be over before the race even begins.
Due to a safety violation found in pre-race inspection, Logano will have to start the race from the rear of the field and will also be immediately required to serve a pit road pass through penalty due to a left hand driving glove that did not meet the SFI fire and safety regulations.
Specifically, this is a violation of rule 14.3.1.1 in the NASCAR rule book.
Some additional background, in addition to a glove that does not meet the SEMI Foundation Incorporated standard, it was also a webbed glove found to be altered and modified for a potential competitive advantage when he stuck his left hand out towards the window net.
In theory, the glove could be used to deflect air from the interior and minimize drag.
NASCAR first became aware or suspicious of the gloves after the broadcast picked up Logano’s in-car during qualifying on Saturday. NASCAR confiscated them, viewed them side-by-side, and announced the penalty on Sunday before the race.
Logano is being sent to the rear and down pit road for the start of the race due to the SFI violation. Any midweek penalties will be of a competitive nature for the alteration and modification of the glove.