3-Time NASCAR Champ Admits to “Wrecking” Rival, Fans Outraged by Shocking Confession

Tempers ran high during last weekend’s Craftsman Truck Series race at Martinsville Speedway, with Taylor Gray and Christian Eckes even clashing in a heated post-race confrontation. Many expected the tension to cool before the championship race at Phoenix Raceway, but if the practice session was any indication, the final race could be just as intense.

Three-time Truck Series champion and driver of the No. 88 ThorSport Racing truck, Matt Crafton, openly admitted to attempting to wreck a rival during practice. According to Bryan Nolen from FrontStretch, Crafton said over the team radio, “Tried to wreck him in three and four, but I missed.” It remains unclear what specifically triggered Crafton’s frustration, but it’s possible he felt wronged by another driver during the recent Martinsville chaos involving Gray and Eckes. With just one race left this season, Phoenix will be the final chance for drivers to settle any scores before a fresh start next year.

For a seasoned driver like Crafton, deliberately trying to wreck another competitor surprised many fans, who were quick to criticize his actions and even suggested he consider retiring. The veteran’s outburst didn’t sit well with fans, some of whom have expressed concern about where his frustration might lead.

Fans have a mixed relationship with NASCAR broadcasters, often complaining about poorly timed commercial breaks and missed action on the track. One fan pointed out, “This was practice. (Of course, Fox didn’t show it, so we don’t know who Matt Crafton was mad at.) Oh this race goin to be a s—show.”

Crafton has undeniably made a mark in NASCAR history, racing full-time in the Truck Series since 2001 with 15 career wins, 16 pole awards, and 561 starts alongside his three championships. However, a decline in performance over the past few years has led some fans to think it might be time for him to retire. As one commenter put it, “Dude just needs to hang it up at this point.” Another fan on Reddit noted he hasn’t won a race in this decade, with his last Truck Series victory coming at Kansas in 2020. This was echoed by another fan’s comment, “Hey Matt, go win a race in this decade.”