Ryan Newman’s “Chase” chances take big blow after weekend penalties

Ryan Newman’s chances to make the Sprint Cup playoffs took a big blow on Wednesday after NASCAR announced penalties stemming from the weekend at Darlington.

Following failing a post-race laser inspection over the weekend, Newman has been issued a P3-level penalty that brings with it a 15-point deduction heading into Saturday night’s final race to make the postseason “Chase for the NASCAR Sprint Cup”. Crew chief Luke Lambert has also been fined $25,000.

While fines were also levied to other teams, Newman’s is of particular note because he was on the bubble for making “The Chase” on points.

Newman was just seven points behind the last driver inside the playoff bubble, Jamie McMurray, before he was penalized. Now 22 points behind, Newman will either have to win the race of rally to overcome such a large deficit.

Richard Childress Racing released a statement shortly after the penalty was assessed, saying they would not appeal to NASCAR.

“The car made contact with the outside wall during the race and there was clear damage to the right rear fender and tire. NASCAR has told us that the LIS standard is clear and the car must pass post-race inspection even if damage has been sustained.”

NASCAR announced the news Wednesday afternoon.

NEWS: No. 31 and 42 cars penalized after failed post-race inspection.

Details: https://t.co/dkPsyAmQaA pic.twitter.com/o5P7OxWAWl

— NASCAR (@NASCAR) September 7, 2016

SiriusXM NASCAR Radio Channel 90 has the latest on today’s sanctions, as well as how the “Chase” standings look after this breaking news.