Jeremy Clements’ second career Xfinity Series win at Daytona over the weekend will no longer automatically qualify for the Spartanburg driver for the playoffs after NASCAR punished the team Tuesday for an intake manifold that didn’t meet standards.
The team was found in violation of Sections 14.6.12K&U of the NASCAR Rule Book, which pertains to the intake manifold.
Crew chief Mark Setzer was fined $60,000 and the team has assessed the loss of 75 owner points, 75 driver points and 10 playoff points should it still qualify for the postseason.
Jeremy Clements released the following statement:
In response to the penalty NASCAR announced yesterday, we have filed a notice of appeal.
During NASCAR’s tear-down process of our Daytona engine, our intake manifold was found to be too short from the carburetor face to the bottom of the plenum. This deviation restricts power to the motor, eliminating any positive impact to the motor’s performance.
We are appreciative of NASCAR’s thorough inspection process and look forward to the opportunity to have our voice heard. We appreciate the continued support of our fans and partners as we allow the process to pay out.
The victory stands, per a NASCAR.
In order to now make the playoffs, Clements will have to win one of the final three regular-season Xfinity Series races.
