Kyle Larson loses points lead after NASCAR penalizes team

Chad Johnston, crew chief for Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series driver Kyle Larson, was suspended three races and fined $75,000 on Wednesday after the No. 42 Chevrolet failed a post-race inspection after finishing second Saturday night at Kentucky Speedway.

Larson was penalized 35 driver points and Chip Ganassi Racing lost 35 owner points. Larson lost the Cup Series points lead because of the penalty. He previously held a one-point lead over Martin Truex Jr., who dominated in winning at Kentucky.

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NASCAR said in a penalty report that the infraction involved a part of the rules stating “Ductwork or other devices are not allowed to pass from one area of the interior of the vehicle to another or to the outside of the vehicle.”

In a statement, Chip Ganassi Racing said in part: "We accept the penalty and will move forward."

The Cup Series begins its second half this weekend with a stop  at New Hampshire Motor Speedway.

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