NASCAR star facing race suspension impact as penalty beckons

A NASCAR Cup Series star looks set to have his next race impacted by a key suspension, after Sunday's race at Indianapolis.

Erik Jones wrecked at the Brickyard when his right front wheel came off his car after a pit stop and tire change, sending him into the outside wall at speed.

NASCAR HEADLINES: Bubba Wallace stuns at the Brickyard as disqualified driver set to appeal

NASCAR's typical punishment for incidents in which an improperly secured wheel comes off on track is a two-race suspension for the jackman and tire changer responsible for that wheel, which would leave Jones needing replacements at Iowa and Watkins Glen.

Jones is unlikely to win his way into the playoffs in the remaining weeks, as evidenced by his season-high finishes of fifth at Texas and Atlanta, but they would deal a blow to his chances of finishing in the top 20 of the regular season points standings.

NASCAR RESULTS: Kyle Larson denied at Indianapolis as Bubba Wallace secures dramatic overtime victory

Jones: I knew I would wreck into turn three

Speaking after the race about the moment his wheel detached – unusually leaving the tire clinging to the wheel arch rather than departing with the rest of the wheel – Jones said: "No warning other than just slow on the right front (during a pit stop).

"I saw them struggling there for a second, but figured we got it on. (As) soon as I turned into (turn) three, I knew we were going to crash, and I felt it come off.

"Yeah, it looked bad but honestly didn’t feel as bad in the car as others I’ve had. I feel good and fortunate, happy for that. But, sad for the team. Fast car and things weren’t working out the best today, but I just wanted to have a shot at the end.”

Sunday's race was won by Bubba Wallace in the No. 23 23XI Racing car, putting to an end a 100-race winless streak and securing his spot in the postseason.

READ MORE: NASCAR announce five drivers DEMOTED at Indianapolis including Denny Hamlin

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