The Clash at Bowman Gray Stadium faced significant disruption Wednesday when NASCAR allowed teams to refuel their cars with 35 laps remaining, following multiple vehicles running out of fuel mid-race. Chase Briscoe’s crew chief, James Small, expressed sharp frustration over this decision, criticizing NASCAR’s handling of fuel regulations. This incident has sparked debate within the racing community around race fairness and officiating consistency.
James Small Voices Strong Disapproval of NASCAR’s Fuel Policy
Small’s anger was evident over the team radio as he challenged NASCAR’s choice to permit additional refueling during the event.
Like, you were meant to start the race full. These motherf***rs didn’t start the race full. So it’s their own problem they’re running out of fuel.
He insisted that teams should be responsible for beginning races with enough fuel, and he did not relent following the race. Speaking to Motorsport’s Matt Weaver, Small added,
I just don’t understand that. Everybody knows the rules. Everybody, if you started the race full, you have more than enough to get to the end. I just, whatever.
Impact of Rain and Cautions Adds Complexity to the Race
Originally, fuel concerns were not anticipated to influence race outcomes; however, rain-induced cautions complicated the strategy for teams and officials alike. These repeated interruptions affected race flow and added unpredictability to fuel management. Small criticized the officiating, remarking on inconsistent rule enforcement and changes during the event, stating,
It’s like, why do we even have the rules? Even after the LCQ, they gave a car another set of tires that they said they were never gonna give. It’s just constantly dropping and changing.
Briscoe Reflects on Race Frustrations and Fuel Situation
Chase Briscoe led the race for 35 laps and eventually finished in fourth place. Reflecting on the fuel controversy, Briscoe said,
I didn’t know all the circumstances that were going on, but I know James was not thrilled with the situation. I don’t know. But yeah, after that, it kind of killed me.
Despite the setbacks, Briscoe acknowledged he enjoyed competing in the lead and as a runner-up before the challenges mounted. He also described the difficulties in racing on a narrow track under wet conditions, which made overtaking and maintaining position particularly challenging.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Briscoe’s Team and NASCAR’s Regulations
James Small and Chase Briscoe built momentum during their strong 2025 season together, reaching the Championship 4 in their first year as a pairing. The fuel controversy and related officiating issues at Bowman Gray Stadium highlight ongoing tensions surrounding NASCAR’s rule enforcement. How NASCAR addresses these challenges moving forward may significantly influence race strategies and team performances in the 2026 season and beyond.
"This is complete bullsh**. Like, you were meant to start the race full. These mother f***rs didn't started the race full. So it's their own problem they're running out of fuel."
James Small
— Jordan Bianchi (@Jordan_Bianchi) February 5, 2026
James Small on how this race got away from the 19 team and a messy officiating race pic.twitter.com/yVkHcJ3Wb5
— Matt Weaver (@MattWeaverRA) February 5, 2026
Chase Briscoe on the fuel situation where NASCAR allowed everyone to pit for fuel and the inability for the race to get into any flow once they raced in the wet. @NASCARONFOX pic.twitter.com/tXmTz81bmG
— Bob Pockrass (@bobpockrass) February 5, 2026
