It was determined that the RFK Racing team exceeded the maximum reinforcement allowed for the front bumper covers on Buescher's vehicle, handing out an L1-level penalty over the violation.
NASCAR handed out a penalty of 60 championship points, five playoff points, and a $75,000 fine levied on the team, dropping them out of the playoff spots as things stand.
On top of this, crew chief Scott Graves has been suspended for two rounds, keeping him out of action until the early June race at Nashville.
In a statement released this week, RFK Racing said: “After a thorough review of the penalties issued to the No. 17 Ford Mustang, RFK Racing has decided to appeal NASCAR’s decision. We respect NASCAR’s commitment to fair competition and appreciate the opportunity to engage in the appeals process.”
Graves looks likely to stay sidelined unless the appeal is successful, having sat out last weekend's All-Star Race festivities at North Wilkesboro and been replaced by Doug Randolph.