Danica Patrick and 3 others pull out backup cars after crashing in 1st practice at Bristol

Published September 11, 2015

Driver Jimmie Johnson (48) talks to teammates before practice for the NASCAR Sprint Cup series auto race at Bristol Motor Speedway on Friday, March 14, 2014, in Bristol, Tenn. (AP Photo/Wade Payne) (The Associated Press)

Driver Tony Stewart (14) signs autographs before practice for the NASCAR Sprint Cup series auto race at Bristol Motor Speedway on Friday, March 14, 2014, in Bristol, Tenn. (AP Photo/Wade Payne) (The Associated Press)

Danica Patrick wrecked just minutes into what turned into a dicey first practice session at Bristol Motor Speedway.

At least four drivers had to pull out their backup cars before the halfway point of Friday's 90-minute first practice.

Patrick lost control roughly three minutes into the session and slammed into Parker Kligerman's car. His Swan Racing team appeared to be trying to fix his Toyota, but Stewart-Haas Racing immediately pulled out the backup Chevrolet for Patrick.

Justin Allgaier then hit the wall, and so did Kyle Busch. Moments later, Greg Biffle crashed. All three went to backup cars.

Denny Hamlin watched the first 15 or so minutes of practice from pit road and speculated increased speeds from NASCAR's new aerodynamic rules was leading to the crashes at the 0.533-mile bullring.

URL

https://www.foxnews.com/sports/danica-patrick-and-3-others-pull-out-backup-cars-after-crashing-in-1st-practice-at-bristol