A wheel might not yet have been turned in anger this season, but the first NASCAR suspensions of 2026 are already in place.
The new Cup Series schedule is set to get underway with the Clash exhibition at Bowman Gray Stadium this weekend, weather permitting, but certain personnel will not be there.
NASCAR announced multiple suspensions at the end of 2025, with two crew members in the Cup Series suspended from their roles through this weekend's action in North Carolina.
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NASCAR penalties carry through to the Clash
Specifically, the suspensions in question are going to affect Rick Ware Racing, with crew members De'Quan Hampton and Marquill Osborne having been suspended after last season's race at Martinsville.
Martinsville hosted the penultimate race of last season, and after the event, NASCAR confirmed that Cody Ware's No. 51 team had been penalized under Sections 8.8.10.4.A&C: Tires and Wheels of the rule book.
Specifically, this related to Ware losing a wheel whilst out on track during the race, causing him to spin in turn three and bring out the caution.
The crew members in question received two-race suspensions for their part in that mishap, the first of which was served in the season finale at Phoenix.
Now, they must serve the other this weekend, after which they will then be free to resume their activity in the sport.
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When is the NASCAR Clash?
The NASCAR Clash exhibition is scheduled to take place on Sunday, February 1.
Practice and qualifying are set to take place between 2pm and 4pm ET after being rescheduled.
Later in the day, the last chance qualifying race kick off at 6pm ET, followed by the main 200-lap race at 8pm ET.
