(AP) -- Clint Bowyer gave a defiant defense of his Chase opening victory, saying he "wouldn't cheat" to win a race after his car failed a follow-up inspection.
He also defended his Richard Childress Racing team Friday ahead of a race at Dover International Speedway.
Bowyer says he's looking for answers why NASCAR levied harsh penalties against him that crippled his chances at winning the Chase for the Sprint Cup championship. He was penalized 150 points after Sunday's win at New Hampshire and fell from first to 12th in the standings. He is appealing the ruling.
Bowyer says his team was "triple sure" his car was legal after a warning following the previous race. Bowyer blamed the issue on the wrecker hitting the rear bumper of the car when it was pushed into the winner's circle.
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