2017 AAA 400 Drive for Autism

Dover International Speedway

2017 AAA 400 Drive for Autism

The 2017 AAA 400 Drive for Autism was a Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series race held on June 4, 2017, at Dover International Speedway in Dover, Delaware. The race was contested over 406 laps—extended from 400 laps due to an overtime finish—on the 1-mile (1.6 km) concrete oval. It was the 13th race of the 2017 Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series season.

Background

Dover International Speedway, nicknamed "The Monster Mile," is a 1-mile (1.6 km) concrete oval track located in Dover, Delaware. The speedway has hosted at least two NASCAR Cup Series races annually since 1971. The track is known for its high banking and unique concrete surface, which provides a different racing experience compared to asphalt tracks.

Race Report

Practice Sessions

Three practice sessions were held before the race. Kyle Larson was the fastest in the first practice session, while Martin Truex Jr. topped the charts in the second session. The final practice session saw Kyle Busch setting the fastest time.

Qualifying

Kyle Busch won the pole position for the race with a lap time of 22.648 seconds, achieving an average speed of 158.954 mph. This was Busch's second pole of the season and the 21st of his career.

Race Summary

The race began with Kyle Busch leading the field to the green flag. Throughout the race, there were multiple lead changes and caution periods. Jimmie Johnson emerged as a strong contender, leading several laps and ultimately winning the race. This victory marked Johnson's 83rd career win in the NASCAR Cup Series, tying him with Cale Yarborough for sixth on the all-time wins list.

Overtime Finish

The race was extended to 406 laps due to a late-race caution, leading to an overtime finish. Jimmie Johnson managed to hold off Kyle Larson in the final laps to secure the win.

Results

Race Results

1. Jimmie Johnson 2. Kyle Larson 3. Martin Truex Jr. 4. Ryan Newman 5. Chase Elliott

Championship Standings After the Race

Following the race, the top five drivers in the championship standings were: 1. Martin Truex Jr. 2. Kyle Larson 3. Kevin Harvick 4. Brad Keselowski 5. Kyle Busch

Post-Race

Jimmie Johnson's victory at the 2017 AAA 400 Drive for Autism was significant as it tied him with Cale Yarborough for sixth on the all-time wins list. The race also contributed to the ongoing battle for the championship, with Martin Truex Jr. maintaining his lead in the standings.

See Also

• 2017 Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series
• Dover International Speedway
• Jimmie Johnson
• Kyle Larson
• Martin Truex Jr.