Austin Dillon didn’t hold back in criticizing Joey Logano after the Team Penske driver attempted a stunt on pit road following the Cook Out 400 at Richmond Raceway. Dillon expressed his concern over Logano’s reckless actions, emphasizing that such behavior could endanger his child, especially in front of the RCR garage.
After the race concluded, Logano executed a mini-burnout on pit road, clearly frustrated with his performance during the final lap.
In a dramatic turn during NASCAR overtime, Dillon made a bold move, cutting into Logano’s lane and sending him spinning, which ultimately paved the way for Dillon’s victory while ruining Logano’s chances. In the heat of the moment, Logano chose to vent his anger right outside the RCR garage.
“What really frustrated me about Joey was when he drove through there while my wife and kid were trying to cross. He revved his engine right in front of my child and Johnny Morris and the others,” Austin Dillon expressed (via on3.com). “I understand the emotions can run high, but that’s something you should address in an interview or discuss with me directly. You need to exercise caution on pit road with that kind of behavior.”
While Logano faced significant backlash for his actions, Dillon’s approach also drew considerable criticism from fans and analysts. Even both current and former drivers took issue with the #3 driver’s controversial maneuvers.
It’s worth noting that Logano wasn’t the only one affected by Austin Dillon’s aggressive driving. Denny Hamlin, who had a strong chance of winning the Richmond race, also collided with the #3 car and crashed into the wall at a high speed.
NASCAR acknowledged Joey Logano’s actions after the race prior to Austin Dillon’s remarks.
During the Cook Out 400 at Richmond Raceway, NASCAR Cup Series drivers Joey Logano (22) and Austin Dillion (3) prepared to restart the race for overtime. (Source: Imagn)
Following the race, Joey Logano’s aggressive behavior on pit road caught the attention of NASCAR officials. Elton Sawyer, the Vice President of Competitions for NASCAR, stated that the organization is aware of the incident and will take appropriate measures in due time.
“We want to avoid making a hasty decision that could lead to mistakes,” Sawyer explained in a post-race interview. “Our goal is to thoroughly review everything that transpired during the final lap and after the race to determine if any penalties are warranted.”
Logano’s actions raised safety concerns for NASCAR, especially since the Team Penske driver was alarmingly close to the Richard Childress Racing garage. It remains to be seen whether NASCAR will hold Logano accountable and impose any penalties for his conduct.
