The SMART Modified Tour announced the results of two appeals regarding the disqualification of the Jeffreys Racing team, driven by Carson Loftin, following the September 6, 2025, Robert Jeffreys Memorial event at Caraway Speedway in Sophia, NC.
The following was the decision by the SMART Modified Tour Appeals Panel regarding the initial plea from the team:
Findings of Fact
- The SMART Rule Book requires that any part not previously approved for competition must be submitted to the series for approval before use (Section 6, Inspections and Eligibility).
- The check valve found in the vent line was never approved. Once identified in 2024, SMART expressly removed it from competition.
- The engine builder was previously placed on notice by SMART and the unapproved part was not presented for approval before being found in inspection.
- Crew chiefs are charged with responsibility for ensuring full compliance of their teams and equipment under Section 7 of the Rule Book. Misinterpretation of the rule or bulletin does not excuse a violation.
Analysis
The evidence shows the violation originated with the engine builder, who continued to use a part that had been addressed by a series bulletin as being unapproved for competition. Compliance obligations rest with both the builder and the entrant. While the panel does not find that the Jeffreys family knowingly acted in violation, the rules place ultimate accountability on the team. For the sake of fairness to all competitors, enforcement cannot turn on intent, but must follow the standards of the SMART Rule Book as written.
Decision
Upon further review, the panel stands by the original penalty. The disqualification is upheld, and the appeal is denied.
After the decision was delivered to Jeffreys Racing, the team exercised its option for a final appeal with the Final Appeals Officer. As of 10:15 PM (ET), on Tuesday, September 9, 2025, the FAO made the decision to uphold the disqualification of Jeffreys Racing.
Luke Baldwin (number-7va), is now the winner of the race.
This two-stage process ensures that competitors have a fair opportunity to contest penalties, while preserving the integrity and consistency of SMART’s rule enforcement.
Results from the Caraway Speedway event remain unofficial until SMART receives the outcomes from an independent lab for the tire samples taken at Caraway Speedway.
