Ross Chastain found himself in a high-stakes battle at Watkins Glen International. Starting on the pole for only the second time in his career, the Trackhouse Racing driver aimed for a rare victory on the 2.45-mile road course. Though the 31-year-old came close to clinching his fifth Cup Series win, a string of bad luck and an ill-timed caution dashed his hopes. Still, the Florida native managed an impressive fourth-place finish, a result that many wouldn’t have predicted going into the weekend.
However, the race wasn’t without controversy. Martin Truex Jr. ended up with a disappointing 20th-place finish after getting caught in an incident with Kyle Larson. In a post-race interview with *Frontstretch*, Chastain shared his perspective on the accident, eager to distance himself from the wreck.
### Chastain Satisfied with His Performance
Ross Chastain’s weekend at Watkins Glen was one for the books. Qualifying on the pole, he showed off just how fast his Chevrolet Camaro could be when everything clicked. Despite not being in playoff contention, Chastain proved he could run with the best. He finished ahead of strong competitors like Martin Truex Jr. and Shane van Gisbergen, showing he had the speed to be a factor.
While Chastain didn’t earn any stage points in the first segment, he fought hard to finish first in Stage 2, setting himself up for a strong run to the finish at the 2024 Go Bowling at The Glen. When asked how he felt about his performance, Chastain gave a candid response: “Good, man. It was good. A good weekend for us. Just to put the Busch Chevy on pole and have control of the race with Shane (van Gisbergen) there. We just caught one bad caution that took us out of control. That wasn’t any of our fault. Then, I made a mistake letting the 77 get by me with about 25 laps to go. That knocked us off the front row for the last few restarts, so I was just trying to push and move ahead.”
Despite the setback, Chastain’s fourth-place result was a bright spot in his season and his best finish in the Cup Series so far in 2024. The race might not have gone entirely his way, but he left Watkins Glen with a sense of accomplishment and momentum for the rest of the season.
### Truex Jr.’s Struggles Continue
On the other side of the spectrum, Martin Truex Jr. had a much more frustrating day. After qualifying second and winning Stage 1, it seemed like Truex Jr. was on his way to a much-needed victory. The veteran driver, who had struggled to find Victory Lane all season, looked poised to break through at Watkins Glen.
However, with three laps to go, Todd Gilliland made a move on Kyle Larson, causing chaos on the track. Truex Jr. was caught in the melee, slamming into the wall, and his chances of winning evaporated. His No. 19 Toyota Camry, heavily damaged, limped across the finish line in 20th place. It was a bitter end to a race that had promised so much.
The wreck didn’t just affect Truex Jr.; it also had repercussions for Chastain, who was forced to give up his position on the grid despite not being involved in the incident. This allowed Carson Hocevar in the No. 77 Chevrolet to move up, and he ultimately finished in third place. Even though the circumstances were beyond Chastain’s control, he took the result in stride, focusing on the positives of his highest finish of the season.
### Truex Jr.’s Frustration Boils Over
For Truex Jr., the Watkins Glen race was another chapter in a season filled with frustration. Despite his strong early showing, the veteran driver’s chances of making a deep playoff run now hang in the balance. With eight races remaining in the Cup Series season, Truex Jr. is struggling to stay above the playoff cutline.
Going into Watkins Glen, Truex Jr. was 18 points behind the playoff cut, knowing he needed a good result to stay in contention. After winning Stage 1, it looked like he might be on track to get his first win of the season. But after the crash, any hope of salvaging a strong finish was gone.
Speaking about the incident, Truex Jr. didn’t hide his frustration. “It’s crazy how these races always end like this,” he said. “I don’t understand how these guys can call themselves the best in the world when they just drive through everyone on restarts at the end of these races. It’s frustrating, but it is what it is these days. I’m outta here.”
Known as one of the cleanest drivers on the track, Truex Jr.’s frustration is understandable. He had been so close to victory, only to have it slip through his fingers once again. Now, sitting 14 points behind the playoff cutline, his chances of advancing to the Round of 12 are uncertain. Much will depend on his performance in the upcoming race at Bristol Motor Speedway.
Despite the setbacks, Truex Jr. isn’t completely out of the playoff picture. With a strong finish at Bristol, he could still make it into the next round and possibly mount a late-season championship run before potentially stepping away from full-time racing. The road ahead won’t be easy, but Truex Jr. has proven time and again that he’s capable of bouncing back from adversity.
Author: Christ Christ
“Outrage Erupts! NASCAR Fans Blast Confusing Rulebook After Shocking Ryan Blaney Decision at Watkins Glen”
The opening lap of the race was pure chaos, leading to a dramatic crash that ended the day early for several drivers. It all started when Corey LaJoie clipped Kyle Busch, sending him into a spin that set off a chain reaction. Denny Hamlin, Ryan Blaney, Christopher Bell, and Brad Keselowski were all caught up in the mess. But of all the drivers involved, Ryan Blaney was the one who suffered the most, as his car was taken to the garage, ending his race before it had barely begun.
Under NASCAR’s Damaged Vehicle Policy (DVP), teams have a limited amount of time to make repairs on pit road, and if repairs are needed in the garage, the driver is automatically disqualified. Unfortunately for Blaney, that’s exactly what happened. His car was too damaged to be fixed in time, and because it was taken to the garage, he wasn’t allowed to continue. For a driver like Blaney, who was +33 points above the cutline and hoping to compete for another championship, it was a devastating blow.
Blaney was understandably furious. After being forced out of the race, he voiced his frustration with NASCAR’s decision, saying, “Give us a chance to fix it. They have no idea of the damage.” He argued that his team should’ve been allowed more time to make repairs, especially since his car wasn’t the one responsible for the wreck. But despite his protests, NASCAR held firm, and Blaney was left watching the race from the sidelines.
This decision sparked a huge reaction among fans. Many of them took to social media, rallying behind Blaney and calling out NASCAR for what they saw as an unfair application of the rulebook. Bob Pockrass, a well-known NASCAR reporter, shared two screenshots of the DVP on X (formerly Twitter) and pointed out that NASCAR allows towing for mechanical issues but not for damage, further fueling the debate. The ruling placed Blaney in 38th place, a finish that had serious consequences for his playoff chances.
Meanwhile, Denny Hamlin, who also suffered significant damage in the crash, was able to limp his car back to pit road. After losing a lap while getting his car started, he rejoined the race in 36th place and managed to claw his way back to finish 23rd. But for Blaney, the damage was too severe, and his race was over before it really began.
Fans were not happy with NASCAR’s decision to enforce the DVP so rigidly, especially given the stakes for Blaney. Many of them voiced their displeasure online, with one fan summing up the sentiment: “Well, NASCAR screwed Blaney big.” Others called for a complete rewrite of the rulebook, arguing that the sport needs to modernize its policies to better reflect the type of racing fans want to see. One fan even suggested, “The rulebook needs a rewrite,” calling for more flexibility in how teams are allowed to fix their cars during a race.
A lot of fans believe that teams should be given a chance to make repairs, as long as it can be done safely. “I’d like to know why, though. If it can safely be fixed, the team deserves that chance,” another fan commented, echoing the sentiment that NASCAR’s strict rules sometimes lead to unfair outcomes. They argued that less intervention from officials would make the races more exciting and fairer, much like how referees in other sports try to let the game flow naturally without too much interference.
The DVP itself has been a point of contention ever since it was introduced in 2017. Under the policy, teams have six minutes on pit road to complete repairs. If they need more time or have to go to the garage, the car is disqualified. Additionally, the car must maintain a minimum speed to stay in the race. While the policy was designed with safety in mind, many fans feel that it’s too harsh and often unfairly penalizes drivers who might otherwise be able to continue racing.
Some fans even questioned the consistency of NASCAR’s decision-making. For example, one fan pointed out that if Blaney wasn’t allowed to continue, then other drivers like AJ Allmendinger, who also had a mechanical issue later in the race, should have faced the same fate. However, Allmendinger’s race also came to a premature end due to a mechanical failure, finishing 36th with a DNF (Did Not Finish).
In the end, it was a disappointing day for Ryan Blaney, AJ Allmendinger, and Ricky Stenhouse Jr., who all failed to score points. Despite this setback, Blaney is still holding on to his playoff spot, sitting in 8th place above the elimination line, ahead of drivers like Kyle Larson, William Byron, Chase Briscoe, and Ty Gibbs. The big question now is whether Blaney can bounce back and still make a run for the championship.
With all of the drama and the fallout from NASCAR’s DVP decision, the fans are left wondering: Does Blaney still have a shot at winning the title, or has this ruling taken him out of contention for good?
Denny Hamlin faces mounting playoff pressure after a rough outing at Watkins Glen, info says……
Denny Hamlin’s rough stretch in the NASCAR playoffs continued as the Joe Gibbs Racing driver struggled to make an impact at the Go Bowling at The Glen race on Sunday. Hamlin’s day took a turn for the worse early on, as he got caught in a crash on the first lap at Watkins Glen International Speedway, setting the tone for a tough outing.
After a lackluster qualifying session that saw him start in 22nd place, Hamlin’s weekend spiraled when he got involved in a multi-car wreck right at the start of the race. The incident occurred around the bus stop section of the track, involving several drivers, including Corey LaJoie, Ryan Blaney, Kyle Busch, Christopher Bell, Ricky Stenhouse Jr., and Hamlin. The wreck caused heavy damage to multiple cars, and while some were able to keep racing, Blaney and Stenhouse Jr. were forced to retire immediately.
Hamlin’s #11 Toyota also took significant damage, particularly to the right front tire cover. Although he was able to keep going, his performance was far from competitive. Hamlin limped to a 23rd-place finish, just behind Ty Gibbs and ahead of Harrison Burton.
This disappointing result left Hamlin six points below the playoff cut-line, adding even more pressure to an already tense situation. Reflecting on his performance and recent struggles, the 43-year-old acknowledged in a post-race interview that his qualifying missteps played a role in his tough race day.
“Yeah, I mean, it’s just a couple of races where things weren’t in my control and didn’t go well,” Hamlin admitted. “On the first lap, I’ve got to take responsibility for what I did on Saturday, which is the qualifying. That’s on me. It put us in the middle of where wrecks usually happen, and we got caught in it.”
Hamlin’s frustration comes in the wake of an unexpected victory by Chris Buescher at Watkins Glen. Buescher managed to hold off Shane van Gisbergen and Carson Hocevar to take the win, marking the RFK Racing driver’s first victory of the season.
As Hamlin looks ahead, he’s clearly not satisfied with how things have been going in the playoffs so far. Despite being a strong contender during the regular season, where he finished fourth with 858 points and secured three victories, his form has dipped at a crucial moment. The playoffs are proving to be a challenge, and Hamlin now finds himself in a precarious position, dangerously close to the cutoff.
Before the Go Bowling at The Glen race, Hamlin had already spoken about his frustration with his recent run of form. In a media interaction with Fox Sports, he opened up about how disappointing the last few races have been.
“I mean, certainly I don’t love where I’m at—that’s a given,” Hamlin said. “But I still think if I just do the best I can tomorrow, and do the best I can at Bristol, it’ll still work itself out. But if it doesn’t, it doesn’t. My number one goal is getting to a win, and I’ve got plenty of races to do that.”
Despite the setbacks, Hamlin remains determined to turn things around. He emphasized his focus on securing at least two wins during the playoffs, hoping they’ll count toward something meaningful in the long run. While the playoff pressure mounts, Hamlin’s confidence in his ability to bounce back remains strong.
Hamlin’s regular season was largely positive, with three victories under his belt. However, a points penalty due to a technical issue with his Toyota Camry at Bristol set him back. Now, as the playoffs continue, every point matters, and Hamlin will need to put together strong performances to climb back above the cut-line and keep his championship hopes alive.
Looking ahead, Hamlin knows that the margin for error is slim. With the final races of the season fast approaching, he’s determined to break out of his slump and make a push for the championship. But for now, Hamlin is grappling with a challenging stretch, and the pressure is only getting more intense. He has the talent and experience to pull through, but it’s clear that nothing will come easy in this fiercely competitive playoff race.
Unpacking the Controversy: What Caused Kyle Larson and Brad Keselowski’s Penalties at Watkins Glen?
Kyle Larson and Brad Keselowski found themselves in hot water during the NASCAR Go Bowling at The Glen race at Watkins Glen International Speedway after violating key pit road rules. Their infractions led to penalties that sent both drivers to the back of the field, impacting their race results and shaking up their respective teams’ strategies.
After Stage 2 of the race, Larson, driving for Hendrick Motorsports, and Keselowski, representing Roush Fenway Keselowski Racing, both pulled into pit road. It was here that things took a turn for the worse for the pair. NASCAR officials immediately slapped penalties on both drivers for breaking pit lane regulations. Larson was hit with a penalty for vehicle interference, while Keselowski’s issue arose from a lost tire on pit road.
The exact nature of Larson’s mistake was explained in a video shared by NASCAR on NBC, where analyst Steve Letarte broke down the situation. According to Letarte, Larson turned into his pit box without properly following the rules concerning the ‘Orange box,’ a marker that indicates where drivers must enter their pit area. In his haste to complete a fast pit stop, Larson cut through Erik Jones’s pit box, violating NASCAR’s strict rules that prohibit interfering with another team’s pit stop area. This interference earned him a penalty, pushing him to the back of the field, an unfortunate setback for the #5 driver.
Keselowski’s day also spiraled downhill with a series of penalties that disrupted his race. First, he was penalized for an uncontrolled tire that broke loose during his pit stop, a common but costly mistake in NASCAR. Unfortunately for Keselowski, his woes didn’t end there. Shortly after serving the penalty, he was again penalized for speeding on pit road, compounding his earlier misfortune. These combined errors forced him to the back of the pack.
But Keselowski’s troubles didn’t stop at penalties. During the race, he became involved in a significant on-track collision. The crash occurred as Keselowski and Joey Logano were racing side-by-side, jostling for position. As they battled, William Byron, driving for Hendrick Motorsports, sped up from behind and collided directly into Keselowski’s car. The force of the impact sent both Keselowski’s Ford and Byron’s Chevrolet crashing into the fence, resulting in substantial damage to both vehicles. The incident not only harmed Keselowski’s chances of climbing back up the standings, but it also cost him several positions in the race, leaving him struggling to recover.
Following the chaotic events at Watkins Glen, Kyle Larson took responsibility for his actions on pit road. NASCAR journalist Jordan Bianchi shared the news on X (formerly Twitter), reporting that Larson had apologized for the mistake that led to his penalty. Larson explained that he believed he had been acting cautiously during the pit stop but now realized that his judgment had been off, resulting in the costly interference.
While Larson and Keselowski’s penalties grabbed much of the spotlight, the race itself concluded with Chris Buescher emerging victorious. The RFK Racing driver secured his first win of the season, holding off challenges from Shane van Gisbergen and Carson Hocevar to claim the top spot. It was a hard-fought victory for Buescher, who managed to maintain control and composure throughout the race’s tense final stages. Meanwhile, Larson, despite his earlier setback, managed to finish 12th, salvaging a decent result from what could have been a much worse day. Keselowski, on the other hand, wasn’t as fortunate, as the penalties and crash left him trailing behind in 26th place by the race’s conclusion.
In NASCAR, pit road violations can have serious consequences, and Larson and Keselowski’s experiences at Watkins Glen serve as prime examples. A misjudgment on pit road can turn a promising race into a frustrating battle just to stay in contention. For both drivers, the penalties not only cost them valuable track position but also significantly altered the outcome of their races.
As the NASCAR season continues, both Larson and Keselowski will undoubtedly be looking to bounce back from their difficult day at Watkins Glen. They’ll need to learn from their mistakes and tighten up their strategies, both on pit road and on the track, if they hope to avoid similar pitfalls in the future. For now, the race at Watkins Glen will serve as a reminder of just how important precision and caution are during pit stops—small errors can quickly lead to big setbacks in the fast-paced world of NASCAR racing.
What Went Wrong for Denny Hamlin at Watkins Glen? Analyzing His Point Loss and Future Implications
Denny Hamlin, one of NASCAR’s most accomplished drivers, has faced his share of ups and downs on the racetrack. However, the events at Watkins Glen recently marked a particularly low point in his season, as he left the iconic road course not just with a poor finish, but with negative points. This surprising turn of events left many fans and analysts scratching their heads—how did Hamlin, a veteran racer, end up in such a bad position? What went wrong at Watkins Glen, and how will this impact his chances as the season moves forward?
Let’s break down the events of the race, the penalties that hit Hamlin hard, and what this all means for his future in the NASCAR Cup Series.
### A Tough Day at Watkins Glen
Watkins Glen International is known as one of NASCAR’s most challenging tracks. Its winding road course demands not just speed but precision, focus, and strategy. Many drivers find the race thrilling, but for Hamlin, this year’s race turned into a nightmare. Despite his experience and past successes, Hamlin found himself struggling from the start.
In NASCAR, one wrong move can cascade into a series of problems, and that’s exactly what happened here. Hamlin’s troubles began early in the race when his car didn’t seem to have the speed or control needed to compete at the front of the pack. As the race progressed, things only got worse. A few key moments of contact with other drivers and errors in pit strategy pushed him further back in the field, preventing any real chance of recovery.
However, while Hamlin’s performance on the track was far from ideal, it wasn’t the real reason for his disastrous points loss. The bigger problem came after the race, when NASCAR’s post-race inspections uncovered something that would drastically change the outcome of his day.
### The Penalty That Sealed His Fate
In NASCAR, post-race inspections are critical. Cars are thoroughly checked to ensure that no teams have violated the strict rules governing vehicle setups and performance. Unfortunately for Hamlin, his team was found in violation of these rules. The infraction was severe enough that NASCAR handed down a penalty, docking Hamlin crucial points.
NASCAR’s points system is straightforward—drivers accumulate points based on their finishing positions in races, with bonuses for leading laps or stages. However, penalties for rule violations can quickly eat into those points. In this case, the penalty was so harsh that Hamlin didn’t just lose the points he earned at Watkins Glen; he ended up with negative points.
This was a significant blow for Hamlin, who has been chasing playoff points and trying to solidify his position in the Cup Series standings. Losing points at this stage of the season puts extra pressure on him to perform well in upcoming races if he wants to keep his championship hopes alive.
### Why Points Matter So Much
To understand why losing points is such a big deal, you have to know how NASCAR’s playoff system works. Throughout the regular season, drivers accumulate points based on their race performances. These points determine who qualifies for the playoffs and, eventually, who has a shot at winning the championship.
The top 16 drivers make the playoffs, and losing points, especially in the way Hamlin did, can drop a driver down the standings or even knock them out of contention. While Hamlin is still safely within the playoff bubble for now, this penalty means he has less breathing room. He will need to be extra careful and consistent in the coming races to avoid any further mistakes or bad luck.
### The Road Ahead: Can Hamlin Bounce Back?
So, what does this all mean for Denny Hamlin? Is his season in serious jeopardy?
While losing points is undoubtedly a setback, it’s not a death sentence for Hamlin’s season. As a veteran driver with years of experience, Hamlin has overcome adversity before. His track record speaks for itself—he’s a multiple-time race winner this season and is still considered a top contender for the championship.
The key for Hamlin will be how he responds in the next few races. With the NASCAR playoffs quickly approaching, he needs to put Watkins Glen behind him and focus on strong, mistake-free finishes. Consistency will be his best friend moving forward. If he can string together a few top finishes, he’ll not only recover the points he lost but also regain the momentum he needs heading into the playoffs.
Another important factor is his team. NASCAR is a team sport as much as it is an individual one, and Hamlin will need his crew to be sharp. Mistakes like the one that led to his penalty can’t happen again if Hamlin wants to stay in the hunt for a championship. His team will need to be on top of their game to make sure his car is legal and competitive in every race.
### Final Thoughts
Denny Hamlin’s negative points day at Watkins Glen was a rare and unfortunate setback in what has otherwise been a strong season. The penalty he received was a harsh reminder of how quickly things can go wrong in NASCAR, especially when rules are broken.
However, Hamlin’s not out of the fight. With his experience and skill, there’s little doubt he can recover from this and continue his march toward the playoffs. But one thing’s for sure: every race from here on out is crucial. Every point matters, and Hamlin will need to bring his best if he wants to stay in the championship conversation.
The road ahead isn’t easy, but if anyone can handle the pressure, it’s Denny Hamlin.
Ryan Blaney’s Frustration Unleashed: “They Have No Idea of the Damage” After NASCAR’s First-Lap DNF at Watkins Glen
Ryan Blaney’s day at Watkins Glen International took a dramatic turn when he became an early casualty during the Go Bowling at The Glen race. It all happened just one lap into the race, where Team Penske’s #12 car got caught in a multi-car pileup near the bus stop section of the track. This chaotic crash marked a disappointing early end for Blaney, as he found himself out of the race before it had barely begun. The crash led to a DNF (Did Not Finish) for the Penske driver, a bitter pill he was unwilling to swallow without protest. Feeling wronged by NASCAR’s handling of the situation, Blaney didn’t hold back from expressing his frustration.
What further aggravated Blaney’s day was how NASCAR officials decided to remove his car from the track. A crane was sent to tow the damaged vehicle, and with that, any hope of getting back into the race was extinguished. Blaney, not one to sit quietly, walked down pit road after his car was taken off, clearly frustrated and eager to have a word with the NASCAR officials about the decision.
When questioned if Team Penske should have been given more time to fix the car before it was towed away, Blaney’s response reflected his irritation. He argued that his team deserved a chance to assess the damage and potentially repair the car. His main gripe was that NASCAR had made a decision too quickly without allowing the team to see if the car was salvageable.
“Give us a chance to fix it,” Blaney said, visibly annoyed. “How do they know if we’re done or not? They have no idea of the damage. It’s not like I could drive it back to the pit box, and that’s why we’re done. They tow you back to the garage, and that’s it – you’re out. I don’t get why they wouldn’t let us at least try to fix it.”
Blaney went on to say that he didn’t fully understand what had even caused the accident in the first place. In the chaotic first lap, Blaney had stacked up with other drivers when suddenly another car from the left slammed into his, wrecking his steering completely. Whether or not his team could have fixed the damage remains unclear, but Blaney was adamant that they should have been given the chance to try.
This DNF at Watkins Glen was a significant blow to Blaney’s quest for the NASCAR Cup Series championship. Coming into the race, he held a +45 point advantage, but that cushion is expected to shrink after his early exit. For a driver vying for the championship, losing out on a chance to fight for positions due to a crash on the first lap was a frustrating outcome, to say the least.
As for NASCAR’s side of the story, their decision was rooted in the official rulebook. According to NASCAR regulations, officials are allowed to call a DNF under certain circumstances. Fox Sports’ Bob Pockrass reported that while NASCAR permits a car to be towed and continue racing if it’s a mechanical issue, the same doesn’t apply when the damage is a result of an accident. In those cases, the car must be removed from the track and taken either behind the pit wall or to the garage. Once towed, a damaged vehicle is not permitted to return to the race.
The rule, as it stands, reads: “A vehicle that sustains damage from an accident or contact of any kind, must go behind pit wall or to the garage area, whether under its own power or not, will not be permitted to return to the Race.” This policy was at the heart of why Blaney’s car was taken out of the race after the crash, leaving him no room to protest.
Blaney wasn’t the only one involved in the multi-car wreck. Other drivers such as Kyle Busch, Denny Hamlin, Christopher Bell, and Ricky Stenhouse Jr. were also affected by the crash and went off the track. However, while most of them were able to carry on with the race, Blaney and Stenhouse Jr. were not so fortunate and were sidelined immediately.
For Blaney, this race at Watkins Glen was one of those tough days where everything seemed to go wrong from the start. The crash, the quick decision by NASCAR, and the missed opportunity to stay in the race all contributed to his frustration. As the season marches on, Blaney will now have to regroup, refocus, and continue his push for the championship with fewer points than he hoped for after this race.
In the end, it was a day of frustration, missed chances, and early exits for Blaney. However, with the determination he’s shown throughout his career, fans can expect him to come back fighting in the next race.
NASCAR Fans Outraged: Corey LaJoie’s Watkins Glen Crash Sparks Controversy Among Playoff Contenders
The Go Bowling at The Glen race started with a chaotic bang as Corey LaJoie triggered a major crash right on the first lap, disrupting the race for many drivers, including playoff hopefuls like Denny Hamlin. As the cars navigated the bus stop section of the track, LaJoie’s No. 7 Chevrolet Camaro clipped the rear of the No. 8 car, driven by Kyle Busch, which set off a chain reaction affecting multiple cars.
LaJoie, a 32-year-old driver for Spire Motorsports, is currently driving the No. 7 Chevrolet Camaro, though his time with the team is coming to an end after this season. His future in NASCAR remains uncertain, but speculation is swirling about where he’ll land next.
In this incident, LaJoie’s tap on Busch’s car caused it to spin, and as it spiraled, Busch’s No. 8 car made contact with Christopher Bell’s No. 20, although Bell managed to escape with minimal damage. Denny Hamlin, driving the No. 11 car and aiming to secure his playoff spot, wasn’t so lucky. He collided with Busch’s car, which caused significant setbacks, pushing him far down the field.
Brad Keselowski, driving the No. 6 Ford Mustang, tried to avoid the chaos but couldn’t escape unscathed. While slowing down to avoid Busch’s spinning car, Keselowski got hit from behind by Ryan Blaney, further escalating the incident. Though Blaney and Keselowski are both playoff contenders, the damage was especially costly for Keselowski, who was forced to retire from the race. Meanwhile, the other drivers involved were able to continue, although their races were significantly affected.
Fans were not shy about sharing their displeasure with LaJoie. Social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter) exploded with comments criticizing the driver. One fan simply called him a “menace,” while others expressed frustration, saying things like, “LaJoie is f***ing terrible!” and “Another certified Corey LaJoie banger,” dripping with sarcasm. Some fans went as far as calling for LaJoie to be removed from his car immediately, with one claiming, “They need to take LaJoie out of the car immediately. It’s getting ridiculous!” The negative sentiment continued as another fan added, “@CoreyLaJoie is literally the worst driver in NASCAR that includes ARCA,” while another questioned, “How can anyone defend LaJoie anymore?”
This wreck couldn’t have come at a worse time for the playoff drivers, as Go Bowling at The Glen is a crucial race in the Round of 16 of the NASCAR Cup Series playoffs. It’s also the first of two road courses on the playoff schedule, with the next one being the Roval 400 at Charlotte, the last race in the Round of 12. Every point counts for playoff contenders, and this race could have a lasting impact on their championship hopes.
Amidst all the controversy, rumors have been circulating about where LaJoie might land next season. There’s talk that LaJoie could be swapping seats with Justin Haley at Rick Ware Racing. If the speculation proves true, LaJoie could find himself driving the No. 51 Ford Mustang in the 2024 season. However, no official announcement has been made yet, and LaJoie’s future remains up in the air.
Despite the uncertainty, LaJoie seems optimistic about his prospects. Last month, in an interview with *The Athletic*, he expressed confidence that teams are interested in him and that opportunities will arise. “My phone’s going and people are interested in making calls,” LaJoie said. He added that the best opportunities in his career have come when the timing was right, and he expects the same to happen again. Whether his next move keeps him in the NASCAR Cup Series or takes him elsewhere remains to be seen, but LaJoie believes the right door will open when it’s supposed to.
As for the current standings at Watkins Glen, Corey LaJoie is surprisingly holding his own, running in second place. Meanwhile, Denny Hamlin is having a tough time, sitting in 34th place as he fights to keep his playoff hopes alive after a challenging 13th-place finish in Atlanta. The Glen race has proven to be full of unexpected twists and turns, much like LaJoie’s career trajectory as he faces an uncertain future in NASCAR.
In a sport where every decision, crash, and pass can make or break a season, LaJoie’s actions at The Glen have put him in the spotlight for all the wrong reasons. Whether he can shake off the criticism and find success in the future remains to be seen, but for now, he’s a driver surrounded by questions, both about his driving and his future in the sport. All eyes will be on him as the season progresses, and fans wait to see what happens next.
Kyle Busch Vigorously Supports Denny Hamlin’s Atlanta Delay with Impactful 7-Word Remark that Stirred Fans.
Denny Hamlin’s performance at the Atlanta playoff race sparked plenty of conversation and surprise. The Joe Gibbs Racing driver adopted a defensive strategy, attempting to play it safe and gather points rather than chase an aggressive win. While this might seem cautious, Hamlin had a valid reason: engine troubles. Yet, many questioned whether this was the best approach in a high-stakes playoff scenario where opportunities are limited.
Kyle Petty, a former NASCAR driver and analyst, was one of those who openly criticized Hamlin’s strategy. Petty questioned the logic of aiming for points over wins, stating, “Who goes into the playoffs saying, ‘I want to get 20 points in the first race?’” Hamlin’s plan was clear—stay out of the chaos and avoid crashes to ensure a solid points finish. But ironically, this strategy backfired when he got caught in a late-race pile-up, finishing 24th. Instead of gaining a safe points buffer, Hamlin’s conservative approach left him with disappointing results.
However, Kyle Busch, Hamlin’s former teammate, defended the strategy. According to Busch, Hamlin wasn’t holding back entirely; he was simply playing the cards dealt to him. Busch explained that Hamlin’s cautious tactics weren’t born from fear but were a calculated decision based on his past struggles at Atlanta. Unfortunately, luck wasn’t on Hamlin’s side, and his approach didn’t pay off.
Hamlin’s struggles at speedways, especially in the Next Gen era, are no secret. Since Atlanta’s 2021 track repave, Hamlin hasn’t been able to find his winning groove. In his last six starts at the quad oval, he’s only secured one top-10 finish. With this track record, Hamlin went into the Atlanta race with modest expectations, aiming to secure as many points as possible instead of risking it all for a win.
Hamlin’s recent superspeedway results further justified his cautious approach. He had DNFs (Did Not Finish) in both his last two races at Talladega and Daytona. Given these past misfortunes, it made sense for him to adopt a more pragmatic strategy. Busch supported this line of thinking, explaining that Hamlin was simply trying to survive the first playoff round. “He just needed a points number; that’s all he was looking for,” Busch said during NASCAR’s “Inside the Playoffs” segment.
Yet, while Busch understood Hamlin’s intentions, he also pointed out the downside of playing it too safe. NASCAR races, particularly restrictor plate events like those at Atlanta, often reward drivers who stay aggressive and make their presence known in the front pack. Busch explained that if you hang back too much, other drivers won’t see you as a threat, and you risk getting left behind. In short, while Hamlin’s cautious approach had its merits, it left him vulnerable to the unpredictable nature of racing.
Every playoff season, the question is asked: “Is this the year for Denny Hamlin?” Time and time again, Hamlin finds himself within striking distance of the NASCAR Cup Series championship, only to fall short. If Hamlin is to finally conquer NASCAR’s biggest prize, he may need to abandon his points-focused strategy and switch to an all-out attack. But is it too late for Hamlin and the #11 team to shift gears and reignite their playoff push?
This year’s playoffs have been full of surprises, with even top drivers like Kyle Busch, Ross Chastain, Chris Buescher, and Bubba Wallace struggling under the intense pressure. While NASCAR’s playoff format rewards consistency, winning remains the ultimate key to success. A single victory in any of the remaining races could secure Hamlin’s spot in the next playoff round.
Despite his disappointing finish in Atlanta, Hamlin still has two more races to turn things around. Up next is the road course at Watkins Glen, followed by a short track race at Bristol Motor Speedway. While Hamlin isn’t known as a standout road course racer, Watkins Glen has been a relatively strong track for him. He finished second in last year’s race and has three top-five finishes in his last four starts at the 2.45-mile course.
If it comes down to the final race at Bristol, Hamlin has plenty of reasons to feel confident. Short tracks have been a strong suit for him this season, with two of his three victories coming at similar venues. Additionally, he’s the defending winner of last year’s fall race at Bristol, which should give him an extra boost of confidence heading into the event.
So while Hamlin’s Atlanta performance may not have gone according to plan, all hope is not lost. With a couple of races left in this playoff round, Hamlin and his team have the opportunity to regroup, adapt, and push forward. To secure his place in the next round, Hamlin needs to deliver in these upcoming races. With his past successes at Watkins Glen and Bristol, there’s a solid chance he can still pull off a comeback. It’s all about execution from here on out, and Hamlin’s championship dreams are still alive, as long as he can find the right balance between caution and aggression.
Kyle Busch Unveils the Flaws of the Next-Gen Car: How Kyle Larson’s ‘Magic Touch’ Makes a Difference
As the engines roar in anticipation of the next race at Watkins Glen, a moment from the previous playoff event still lingers vividly in the minds of NASCAR fans. It was an unforgettable and terrifying incident, one that sent shockwaves through the racing world. Kyle Larson, widely known for his expert handling and precision behind the wheel, found himself in the midst of a nightmare. In an instant, without warning or any contact with another driver, Larson’s car violently crashed into the outer wall. To make matters worse, just moments later, Chase Briscoe came barreling into the scene, unable to avoid the wreck, effectively ending both drivers’ races in a catastrophic collision. The crash left fans on the edge of their seats, watching in disbelief as two of NASCAR’s top contenders were taken out of the race.
Kyle Busch, who narrowly missed making it into the Top 16 playoffs, later sat down with NASCAR’s YouTube channel to share his insights on the incident. As expected from the outspoken and candid Busch, he didn’t mince words. He opened up about the chaotic crash, providing a glimpse into what makes Larson such a formidable competitor. Busch even joked about Larson’s success, attributing it to a little “Magic Fairy Dust” sprinkled on his car each week by his crew chief, Cliff Daniels. This playful comment hinted at the level of precision and care that goes into preparing Larson’s car for each race, making it run like a dream most of the time.
However, this particular race was anything but a dream for Larson—it was a nightmare. The crash not only sidelined both drivers but also put a serious dent in Larson’s playoff hopes. Now, as the focus shifts to Watkins Glen, all eyes are on Larson. Can he recover from this devastating crash and continue his playoff run, or is this just the beginning of more dramatic setbacks? The tension is building, and NASCAR fans are bracing for what’s sure to be an unpredictable and wild ride ahead.
**Kyle Busch’s Insight: What’s Behind Kyle Larson’s Success?**
Kyle Larson is having one of the most impressive seasons of any driver on the circuit. His performances have been so remarkable that some have even drawn comparisons between him and Formula 1 legend Max Verstappen. While Larson’s undeniable driving skill is a huge factor in his success, there’s another element that Busch pointed out: the car. Larson’s No. 5 car has been a crucial part of his success, and according to Busch, there’s definitely something special about how it’s set up.
In a conversation with Shannon Spake on NASCAR’s podcast, Busch reflected on Larson’s crash in Atlanta. Spake asked Busch if he could relate to what Larson had gone through during the incident. Busch, a two-time Cup Series champion, didn’t hesitate in his response, simply stating that it’s “not good.” Busch then recalled a similar experience he had during a practice session at Daytona. His sway bar came loose, which caused a puncture in the right rear tire, leading to a crash. The experience, he said, was a brutal one, with the G-forces being particularly hard on the body.
What surprised Busch most about Larson’s crash was how quickly Larson got on the radio to inform his team, calmly stating, “Yeah, I think something broke.” According to Busch, Larson’s secret to staying so composed under pressure and consistently performing at such a high level is that his car is always in perfect condition. Busch joked that Cliff Daniels, Larson’s crew chief, must be sprinkling “Magic Fairy Dust” on the car each week because it’s always performing flawlessly. Of course, there’s no actual magic involved, but Daniels is known for his meticulous attention to detail, ensuring that Larson’s car is always in top form.
But in Atlanta, something clearly went wrong. Busch hinted that maybe Daniels didn’t sprinkle quite enough magic dust that week, as Larson’s car was loose and unpredictable. The crash was the unfortunate result, and while Larson escaped unscathed, it raised questions about what exactly went wrong.
**Kyle Larson’s Take on the Crash**
After the crash, Larson’s first priority was letting everyone know he was okay. He was taken to the infield care center for an evaluation, and after receiving the all-clear, he rejoined his team. Larson later reflected on the incident, describing it as a massive hit and admitting that he wasn’t entirely sure what had caused the crash. He mentioned that his car felt tight going into the corner but suddenly snapped loose, and from that point on, everything happened in the blink of an eye.
Given the violent nature of the crash, it’s no surprise that Larson couldn’t pinpoint exactly what went wrong. The damage to his car was extensive, particularly after Briscoe collided with him, and it made it difficult to determine the root cause of the failure. The crash also brought renewed attention to the safety of NASCAR’s next-generation cars. While there haven’t been any major fatal accidents involving these new models, some fans are starting to question their overall reliability.
As we look ahead, the big question is whether Kyle Larson can rebound from this setback and continue his pursuit of the championship. His car may have let him down in Atlanta, but with his skill and determination, it’s hard to count him out just yet. Only time will tell if this crash was a fluke or a sign of more trouble to come. One thing’s for sure: the drama of this NASCAR season is far from over.
Denny Hamlin stirs up doubts about 23XI charter talks with NASCAR, saying…
Denny Hamlin and 23XI Racing are standing their ground in the ongoing NASCAR charter dispute. Despite the passing of the final deadline for the latest charter agreement, Hamlin recently confirmed during the Watkins Glen race weekend that his team hasn’t budged on their position. He revealed that there haven’t been any further discussions between 23XI Racing and NASCAR, leaving the situation unresolved.
The charter issue has created quite a stir within the NASCAR community, particularly surrounding the disagreements between 23XI Racing, Front Row Motorsports (FRM), and NASCAR itself. Co-owned by Michael Jordan and Hamlin, 23XI Racing refused to sign the latest charter agreement, reportedly due to a lack of fair bargaining opportunities. Hamlin has been vocal about his dissatisfaction with the terms from the start and continues to stand by his decision.
Jeff Gluck, a journalist for The Athletic, reported Hamlin’s latest thoughts, stating that nothing has changed since the deadline passed. Gluck shared the news on X (formerly Twitter), writing, “Denny Hamlin said 23XI has not had any further discussions with NASCAR since last week, and he’s not sure where the charter stuff goes from here.”
During a recent interview with Frontstretch, Hamlin reiterated his position, expressing uncertainty about the future of the charter talks.
The Bigger Picture: What’s at Stake?
The refusal by 23XI Racing and FRM to agree to the new charter deal has far-reaching implications. Together, the two teams control four of the six charters currently in limbo. This includes two charters from 23XI and two from Front Row Motorsports. The other two belong to Stewart-Haas Racing (SHR), which is set to dissolve at the end of the current season. Rumors suggest that one of SHR’s charters could go to 23XI Racing and the other to Front Row Motorsports. However, until a new deal is struck, the future of these six charters remains uncertain.
Hamlin has openly described the charter situation as “unfortunate.” On his Actions Detrimental podcast, the driver of the #11 car spoke candidly about the challenges his team faces regarding the charter dispute. He criticized NASCAR for imposing the new charter agreement on such short notice, calling the move inappropriate.
“Really, not gonna comment a whole lot further than what was said in my media availability, which was a whole lot of nothing,” Hamlin said during his podcast, clearly frustrated by the unresolved situation. He continued, “This is a serious situation, and the statement that 23XI put out accurately summed it all up.”
He added that Curtis Polk, a key figure within 23XI Racing, had fielded questions from the media and echoed his own frustrations. According to Hamlin, Polk’s responses aligned with the team’s stance, and Hamlin reiterated his belief that the timeline NASCAR imposed was unreasonable. “We were just put under a crazy timeline and just thought that it was not appropriate and decided to stand up and say, ‘This is not right,’” Hamlin emphasized.
The Road Ahead for 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports
As of now, both 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports have two full-time cars running in the NASCAR Cup Series. 23XI’s entries are driven by Tyler Reddick and Bubba Wallace, while Front Row fields Michael McDowell and Todd Gilliland. The uncertainty surrounding their charters leaves both teams in a precarious position for the future.
With SHR dissolving at the end of the season, the question remains whether 23XI Racing and FRM will acquire the available charters. However, their refusal to sign the latest charter deal has left them in limbo. If the dispute continues without a resolution, the future of six charters, as well as the teams relying on them, remains up in the air.
Why the Charter System Matters
To fully grasp the gravity of the situation, it’s important to understand the significance of NASCAR charters. A charter in NASCAR guarantees a team’s spot in every race of the Cup Series, offering a certain level of security. Teams that hold charters are protected from having to qualify for each race on a week-by-week basis. Essentially, charters give teams financial stability and ensure their long-term viability.
Without a charter, teams would face the uncertainty of having to qualify for every race, and they could be left without a spot in some events. For teams like 23XI Racing and FRM, losing their charters could have serious consequences, potentially impacting sponsorships, revenue, and their overall competitiveness in NASCAR’s top series.
Hamlin’s Stand: What’s Next for the Charter Talks?
Denny Hamlin’s refusal to back down from his position is indicative of the seriousness of the situation. By standing firm, Hamlin is sending a clear message to NASCAR: 23XI Racing won’t accept a deal they believe is unfair. However, with the final deadline for the charter agreement already passed, the question now is what happens next.
Will NASCAR reconsider its stance? Will 23XI Racing and FRM be able to secure the necessary charters for the future? These are the questions that continue to loom over the NASCAR world.
As the season progresses, all eyes will be on Denny Hamlin and 23XI Racing to see if a resolution is reached. Until then, the future of several charters—and the teams they represent—hangs in the balance.