WATCH: Playoff Contender’s Car Catches Fire in NASCAR Truck Series Race at Kansas

During the NASCAR Truck Series race at the Kansas Speedway, there was the usual multi-car crash. In that accident, Tyler Ankrum got the worst, as the underside of his car was on fire as he skidded across the track.

The 19-year-old got tangled with Raphael Lessard and the two brought out the caution flag. Apparently, the impact knocked off Ankrum’s fuel line, which started the fire. It is worth noting that Ankrum crashed at the Kansas Speedway last year as well, so the track does not hold fond memories.

Admittedly, Ankrum could not afford to have a poor result because he is battling to stay alive in the playoffs. So, a crash like this puts him at a major disadvantage for the two remaining races. The worst part is that he is 16 points below the cut line, so this crash really hurt his chances.

What did Tyler Ankrum say about his NASCAR Truck Series crash?

Speaking to Fox Sports, he revealed that he was running near the fence behind Matt Crafton. He went three-wide and someone ahead of him lost control and triggered the accident. Truthfully speaking, he had nowhere to go and was simply a passenger when the contact came.

However, he confessed that the accident didn’t surprise him. This is because he observed that Raphael Lessard was out of control for most of the race.

He said, “Flames look cool, but we thank Chevy and GMS for all the hard work that we’ve done. Now we’re in a hole with the playoffs. Probably have to go win Texas and Martinsville and we’ll try and make the final four.”

Admittedly, winning the next two races on the trot is easier said than done. However, Ankrum insisted that he will definitely give it his best shot. The next two races truly signify crunch time for the 19-year-old, but he is determined to make it. Even if he falls short, he can be sure that he will try to bow out on a high note.