(Photo by Jonathan Bachman/Getty Images)

Chase Briscoe's Crew Chief Rails About Controversial NASCAR Decision

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Jonathan Howard | Last updated Feb 4, 2026 9:21 PM ET

The NASCAR season is back. Officials made the call to let teams fuel up as a few cars began to run out of fuel late. Kyle Larson and Chase Elliott both brought out cautions after running out of gas, and that led to the decision to let teams put more in the cars.

It wouldn't be NASCAR season without a controversial ruling from officials. So, it's officially racing season now, folks.

As NASCAR brought teams into the garage area for fuel, James Small lit up on the radio. Chase Briscoe was told he was fine on fuel to begin with, and was racing for the lead against Ryan Preece as the caution came out, and the decision was made by NASCAR.

Carson Hocevar races in the Clash at Bowman Gray. (Photo by Jonathan Bachman/Getty Images)

"This is complete (expletive)," Small said, via Jordan Bianchi of The Athletic. "Like, you were meant to start the race full. These (expletive) didn't star the race full. So, it's their own problem they're running out of fuel."

A tough call by NASCAR. Teams were mixed on this ruling. Those who were calling it close on fuel were happy to come get more. Then there were those like Chase Briscoe who were going to be fine to make it to the end of the race regardless.

James Small is not happy whatsoever with this ruling. Still, Briscoe will have the ability to race for the win against Ryan Preece. It does look like the No. 60 is the best car on the track. However, the track is drying off, there is less water, these wet weather tires are likely going to wear out quickly on a drier track surface.

Will we see slicks put back on these cars? It is hard to tell right now. With the track being in between a wet and dry track, NASCAR officials might have another controversial call to make before this race is said and done.

Chase Briscoe lost his fuel advantage. He still has P2 behind Preece and looks ready to race for the win. This race is going to get physical, and there will be tough decisions made before the finish.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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