Ryan Preece criticizes NASCAR radio coverage during practice at Chicagoland
Motorsport.com • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 4, 2026, 8:15 PM
Last updated Jul 4, 2026

During Cup Series practice at Chicagoland Speedway on July 4, Ryan Preece expressed frustration over a NASCAR mandated safety change regarding headrests. He believed his conversation with his crew was private, but it was aired by the television crew, leading to public scrutiny of his remarks. Preece specifically criticized the new headrest adjustments, stating they were uncomfortable and disruptive. This incident unfolded as teams prepare for upcoming races, highlighting ongoing tensions between drivers and NASCAR regarding safety regulations.
- •Ryan Preece aired frustrations over safety changes during Cup Series practice.
- •His remarks were broadcasted, leading to public criticism.
- •The incident took place on July 4 at Chicagoland Speedway.
- •Preece described the new headrest as uncomfortable and disruptive.
- •The situation reflects ongoing tensions regarding NASCAR's safety mandates.
- 8:15 PMMotorsport.com — Ryan Preece felt like NASCAR TV pried into a personal exchange over his radio
- 8:15 PMYahoo Sports — Ryan Preece felt like NASCAR TV pried into a personal exchange over his radio
"Ryan Preece felt like he was having a private conversation with his crew during Cup Series practice on Friday at Chicagoland Speedway but the television crew aired out his frustrations about a NASCAR mandated safety change. “I’m going to argue with NASCAR about this adjustment that they want and I don’t. This headrest is a pain in the [expletive]. It’s knocking my [expletive] head ...Keep reading
"TNT Sports captured and relayed a complaint about his safety headrest
Sources
External links- Motorsport.comJul 4, 2026, 8:15 PMRyan Preece felt like NASCAR TV pried into a personal exchange over his radio
Ryan Preece felt like he was having a private conversation with his crew during Cup Series practice on Friday at Chicagoland Speedway but the television crew aired out his frustrations about a NASCAR mandated safety change. “I’m going to argue with NASCAR about this adjustment that they want and I don’t. This headrest is a pain in the [expletive]. It’s knocking my [expletive] head ...Keep reading
- Yahoo SportsJul 4, 2026, 8:15 PMRyan Preece felt like NASCAR TV pried into a personal exchange over his radio
TNT Sports captured and relayed a complaint about his safety headrest
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