Ryan Ellis endured a frustrating afternoon in Saturday's The Progress Group 250 at Talladega Superspeedway, finishing 30th after qualifying 20th. The Young's Motorsports driver led one lap but ultimately lost 10 positions during the 94-lap event.
Ellis entered the afternoon hoping to capitalize on a competitive starting position and improve his standing during the closing portion of the season. His No. 02 Chevrolet remained in contention throughout the opening stages as drivers battled through changing drafting lanes.
The unpredictable conditions briefly allowed Ellis to move into the lead for one lap, providing a highlight during his afternoon. However, maintaining that position proved difficult as JR Motorsports controlled much of the racing
near the front. The race's first significant accident occurred on Lap 57 when contact involving Harrison Burton and Taylor Gray triggered a multicar incident.
Ellis remained in competition but could not regain enough track position to challenge for a top-20 result. He ultimately finished 30th, completing all 94 laps and earning seven points. The result helped Ellis maintain 27th in the overall NASCAR O'Reilly Auto Parts Series standings with 316 points. He sits 11 points behind Lavar Scott.
Ellis will attempt to rebound and finish his season strongly at Martinsville and Homestead-Miami.
This article originally appeared on Motorsports Wire: Ryan Ellis' race recap in the 2026 Chase race at Talladega
