What won the race: Slipping past Adam Yarborough in the final five circuits, Steve Banal of Rock Hill, S.C., captured Friday's FUEL opener at Carolina Speedway. Banal pocketed a $2,500 after his late-race pass of Yarborough, who controlled the top spot most of the way but dropped to ninth in the final rundown with late-race mechanical issues.

Key notes: Reigning FUEL points champ Robbie Emory was an early retiree on lap-17 with smoke billowing from the hood of his car. ... Four competitors completed 35 laps. ... Shaun Harrell was running in third when he was involved in an altercation that sent him pitside. ... Friday's event was the first of two scheduled FUEL stops at Carolina on the 2019 season; the series returns June 28.

Winner's sponsors: Banal's Swartz Race Car is sponsored by Banal Racing and WP Racing Shocks.

Points chase: Steve Banal jumped out to an early points lead in the FUEL standings.

Current weather: Clear, 55°F

Car count: 17

Fast qualifier: Jay Sessoms

Heat race winners: Steve Banal, Adam Yarbrough,  ,  ,  ,  ,  

Next series race: June 28, Carolina Speedway (Gastonia, NC) $0