NASCAR reveals disqualification rule for 2026

NASCAR News News Saturday, January 17, 2026 at 1:01 PM ET •By Simmey Hannifin Donaldson

With the 2026 season set to get underway next month, NASCAR is putting the final touches on preparation for the new campaign.

That includes a string of new rules announced in advance of next month's official season opener in all three national series at Daytona International Speedway.

One rule clarification in particular, regarding the O'Reilly Auto Parts and Truck Series caught our eye, with NASCAR updating its rules when it comes to loose lug nuts being found in post-race inspection.

Last season, if a loose lug nut was discovered post-race, it was a mandatory $5000 fine, whilst we also saw a $10,000 fine dished out for two loose lug nuts at one point, too. However, this has all changed for the new season after teams successfully lobbied for changes.

NASCAR amends lug nut rules for 2026

First and foremost, NASCAR has confirmed that if only one loose lug nut is found to be loose or unsecured (19 of 20 are secure and safe) then this will no longer result in a $5000 fine. Instead, teams will simply lose pit selection for the next race.

If two loose lug nuts are discovered (18 of 20 are secure and safe), however, the $5000 fine then comes into play, with the team also having one crew member suspended for one race.

Where things get much stricter is if four loose lug nuts (16 of 20 are secure and safe) are discovered on the car. NASCAR has confirmed that this will result in an instant disqualification.

Explaining the change of thinking, Mike Forde, Managing Director of Racing Communications at NASCAR, said: “It’s a lot to help the teams and make it a little bit more consistent between the trucks and O’Reilly and Cup.

“We want to standardize the rule books as often as we can.”