Todd Gilliland Nearly Loses Left-Rear Tire on Pit Road

Todd Gilliland almost lost the left-rear tire on his No. 34 car during All-Star Open qualifying at North Wilkesboro Speedway on May 16, 2025. As the crew hurried through their pit stop, the left-rear tire changer missed tightening the nut, putting Gilliland at risk of a major problem just as he nearly left the pit box.

The loose wheel cost the team valuable seconds and forced them to correct the issue before Gilliland could return to the track. Pit stops in NASCAR require perfect timing and accuracy. For a deeper understanding of NASCAR pit crew roles and responsibilities, check out this official NASCAR operations guide.

Each crew member is responsible for a specific task, and a single mistake can change the outcome of a qualifying session or race. In Gilliland’s case, the tire did not come off the car, but the mistake highlighted how small errors on pit road can make a big impact.

Moments like this are reminders of how each second counts, especially when drivers are fighting for a strong starting spot in the All-Star Open. Gilliland’s situation wasn’t the only challenge for pit crews that weekend.

Other teams faced similar struggles, including the No. 43 group, where the right-rear tire changer slipped during their qualifying run. Across NASCAR, pit crews work in close coordination, practicing their routines to minimize risks and keep the car in the best position. Similar to the precision and teamwork required in Buddy’s Funny Cars nomination, every member’s role is crucial.

Roles like the fueler and jackman have their own challenges, working together like a choreographed team in a race against the clock. The All-Star race at North Wilkesboro brings together drivers and crews eager to prove themselves. For more on the history of North Wilkesboro Speedway, visit the racing archives at the International Motorsports Hall of Fame.

Mistakes in the pits can lead to lost positions or even potential penalties if a wheel comes off on track. NASCAR has strict rules about loose wheels, including in-race penalties and suspensions for repeated errors. Events like the All-Star Open show just how demanding NASCAR competition is, echoing the high-stakes environment seen in the redemption route of Brittany Force.

Fortunately for Gilliland, the tire was caught in time, and the team avoided further sanctions. Events like the All-Star Open show just how demanding NASCAR competition is, both for drivers and their teams.

Each person’s focus and precision matter, whether it’s tightening a lug nut or refueling a car. Gilliland’s near-miss under pressure serves as a lesson for teams as they prepare for future events, knowing every pit stop could make or break their race.

Pit strategy and flawless execution remain at the heart of every successful NASCAR run. Fans watching the qualifying session saw firsthand how a simple pit road error can add tension and drama, especially when a favorite risks losing time or track position.

Teams use these experiences to improve, practicing even harder between races. For insights into the science behind pit crew efficiency, explore this study by the University of North Carolina’s sports science department. As the season continues, all eyes will be on pit road, where the next split-second mishap or perfect stop could decide who advances or who’s left behind.

John Martinez

John Martinez delivers real-time NASCAR Cup Series and Truck Series news, from live race updates to pit-lane strategy analysis. A graduate of the University of Northwestern Ohio’s Motorsports Technology program, he breaks down rule changes, driver tactics, and championship points with crystal-clear reporting.