Asterisk Mark Report – COTA

AJ Allmendinger – Last year at COTA, AJ Allmendinger arguably had the best car, but he finished an asterisk mark 33rd. In the race, Allmendinger started in the back due to unapproved adjustments but had no trouble driving up thru the field. Then on the last lap while battling for the lead, Chastain had contact with Allmendinger which spun the #16 into a sand trap which led to his poor result. In terms of Total Speed Rankings, Allmendinger ranked 3rd overall but note his speed rankings over the final three segments were 3, 2 and then in the final quarter of the race, the #16 was the fastest car on the track.

Kyle Busch – Lost in the last lap drama in 2022 at COTA, was Kyle Busch spinning while running in 5th. It was just a quick mention in the telecast that I don’t believe was ever shown, and that resulted in Busch’s 28th. Over the last two segments of the race, Busch had speed rankings of 7th and 6th.

Daniel Suarez – Daniel Suarez had a rocket last year at COTA early in the race, but then things went downhill promptly in Stage #2. In the race, Suarez started 2nd, led the first 15 laps, won Stage #1 but then pit strategy of others had him positioned back in mid-pack for Stage #2. Then during the opening lap of Stage #2, Suarez had a cut tire and limped around this humongous track to come back to pit road. Later, Suarez had power steering problems. When the checkered flag waved, Suarez finished 24th.