Tony Stewart won the Drive for COPD Nationwide race Saturday afternoon at Daytona International Speedway as a violent crash unfolded behind him, resulting in the engine of rookie Kyle Larson’s car penetrating the catch fence. NASCAR made no official announcement but the Charlotte Observer reported several fans were being attended to by emergency personnel.
Stewart, who was driving for Richard Childress Racing, fulfilled his sponsor obligation with a subdued victory celebration.
“As much as I want to celebrate right now, I’m more concerned about the drivers and the fans in the stands right now,” Stewart said in Victory Lane.
Larson climbed out of what was left of his car and was checked out and released from the infield care center. At least 10 cars were involved in the crash.
The final-lap wreck happened after the race restarted with two laps to go following a red flag for a 13-car wreck.
Sam Hornish Jr. crossed the finish line behind Stewart. He was followed by Alex Bowman, Dale Earnhardt Jr., Brian Scott, Justin Allgaier, Eric McClure, Robert Richardson Jr. and Travis Pastrana.
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