Brent Crews' race recap in the 2026 Chase race at Talladega

Brent Crews endured a frustrating afternoon in Saturday’s The Progress Group 250 at Talladega Superspeedway, finishing 34th after qualifying eighth. The Joe Gibbs Racing rookie started among the leading competitors but ultimately lost 26 positions during the 94-lap event.

Crews initially demonstrated competitive speed, remaining among the cars capable of challenging the dominant JR Motorsports group. His No. 19 Toyota worked through several drafting lanes during the opening stage as drivers battled for position. Crews continued running competitively during Stage 2, eventually finishing ninth and collecting two valuable stage points.

However, the final stage proved much more challenging. Contact involving Harrison Burton and Taylor Gray triggered a multicar accident on Lap 57, dramatically reshaping the running order. Crews remained in competition but struggled to regain track position as JR Motorsports controlled the leading lanes during the closing laps.

He ultimately finished 34th, completing all 94 laps and earning six points. The disappointing result prevented Crews from strengthening his position in the overall NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series standings. He remains 13th with 798 points, holding a 23-point advantage over William Sawalich.

Crews will attempt to rebound at Martinsville and Homestead-Miami while preserving his position as the highest-ranked driver outside the championship Chase.

This article originally appeared on Motorsports Wire: Brent Crews’ race recap in the 2026 Chase race at Talladega