After it was announced that Matt Kenseth was named the replacement driver for the Chip Ganassi Racing No. 42 car, a big question was left unanswered.
Will Kenseth be able to qualify for the playoffs?
NASCAR determined the answer today, along with the confirmation of another.
Ryan Newman, Matt Kenseth granted Playoff Waiver by NASCAR
Both Ryan Newman and Matt Kenseth were granted waivers for the 2020 NASCAR Cup Series playoffs today, confirming, at least, what was assumed about Newman.
After a scary incident during the Daytona 500, Newman missed the ensuing three races because he was not medically cleared to compete.
NASCAR has issued a playoff waiver in the past to Kyle Busch who missed three times as many events with a broken leg. It’s no surprise they would approve a waiver for him.
Roush Fenway Racing President Steve Newmark confirmed the news over Twitter on Tuesday, saying that his team was ready for the task ahead.
We're thrilled to announce that @NASCAR has granted @RyanJNewman a playoff waiver and he will be eligible to run for the Championship. The entire @roushfenway team is ready for the task ahead . . . .
— Steve Newmark (@NewmarkRFK) April 28, 2020
It was no easy assumption that Kenseth would be granted a waiver, however.
He didn’t miss any races due to injury. The veteran was fully retired before Chip Ganassi called him to ask if he would run his car.
NASCAR, however, confirmed today that none of that mattered. If Kenseth gets a win and finishes within the top 30 in the points standings, he’ll compete for a championship this year.
NASCAR made no formal announcement on the news, but The Athletic’s Jeff Gluck confirmed it in a tweet sent Tuesday afternoon as well.
NASCAR says it will give a playoff waiver to Matt Kenseth. He is eligible to run for the championship. 👀
— Jeff Gluck (@jeff_gluck) April 28, 2020
For more breaking news and updates regarding the situation (Kenseth granted playoff waiver), don’t hesistate to follow our department on social media on both Twitter and Instagram at @RacingVault.
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