Drama In Texas: Restart Decisions Alter NASCAR Drivers’ Fate

Late-Race Restarts Shift Momentum at Texas Motor Speedway

The race at Texas Motor Speedway turned chaotic in the final 50 laps, with each restart becoming a decisive moment. Kyle Larson, who had been leading, lost his advantage when Michael McDowell executed a perfect move from the outside lane.

“You don’t want to give up the lead on a mile and a half. It’s hard to get it back,” said Larson. “Michael did a good job timing it. I left early the restart before and was going to do it again. He anticipated and left either with me or slightly before, plus he had Reddick pushing him from behind.”

Ryan Blaney’s Risk Backfires

Reigning champion Ryan Blaney made a tactical choice by lining up behind Larson during the restart, despite running in second. That allowed McDowell to move to the front row. Eventually, Blaney was overtaken by teammate Joey Logano, who capitalized on the situation and won the race.

“The one time I didn’t pick the outside lane, McDowell got the lead and I couldn’t get it back,” said Blaney.

“Driver making dumb decisions and not doing his job… The 12 car was a fast car today. I just can’t do anything right currently.”

Blaney’s Best Finish of the Season Amid Inconsistencies

Despite the setback, Blaney recorded his best result of the season in Texas. It was his third top-five finish in recent races, even as his 2025 season has been marred by four DNFs.