Kurt Busch wins the All-Star Race

This race, a bit special since it is not part of the Sprint Cup Series, was made up of 100 laps covered by only 21 cars which managed to qualify, either by their previous results, or by the previous qualifying race (the Sprint Showdown) which selected the first two drivers to cross the finish line, or by public voting which designates the driver they want to see participate.

The result of this vote was surprising since the public chose Carl Edwards, who is however far from being the most popular driver among the non-runners. As for the Sprint Showdown, it was won by Martin Truex Junior followed by Greg Biffle. These three drivers were therefore qualified for the start but it was wasted effort since it was the Dodge Charger of Kurt Busch which won the event.

The All-Star Race, composed of several relays with breaks, was therefore won for the first time by the Penske Racing driver after a very indecisive race where each driver could claim victory. The numerous accidents made the race exciting, with in particular the retirement of Montoya on lap 17 or the accident between Denny Hamlin and Kyle Busch on lap 93 which will be talked about again, since the latter left his car angry with the driver no. #11 from Gibbs Racing who were nevertheless able to continue their race. We must also not forget the crash involving no less than eight cars, as many contenders for victory as Carl Edwards, Martin, McMurray and Jeff Gordon.

Kurt Busch was able to stay away from the chaos and hold the lead despite the two yellow flags at the end of the race which destroyed his efforts. The last one was also caused by Jimmie Johnson of Hendrick Motorsports who went to visit the turf of the oval, forcing Busch to rebuild his lead over Martin Truex Junior, finished 2nd, followed by Joey Logano, Denny Hamlin and Tony Stewart who completes the top 5.

The drivers will meet again this weekend on this same circuit, this time racing for the Sprint Cup Series. There is no doubt that Kurt Busch is considered one of the big favorites for this race. But Jimmie Johson, below his performances of late, will have a vengeful spirit and will certainly be very fast this weekend.