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Austin Dillon entered Richmond Raceway with a crucial need to secure a win to clinch a spot in the 2024 NASCAR Playoffs, and he managed to pull off one of the most unexpected victories of the year. In the final laps, Dillon made a decisive move by dropping Joey Logano and then making contact with Denny Hamlin, paving the way for his win.
However, this victory might come with consequences, as Dillon could face suspension following the Richmond race. NASCAR officials are set to review Dillon’s actions during the last lap to determine if any penalties are warranted. The focus will be on his contact with Hamlin, specifically examining whether Dillon intentionally forced Hamlin’s No. 11 car into the wall. If the review finds that Dillon’s actions were deliberate, NASCAR’s precedent could lead to a one-race suspension for the No. 3 driver.
In addition to analyzing the footage, NASCAR is expected to review the radio communication from Dillon’s team. Notably, Dillon’s spotter was heard shouting “Destroy him” in the final moments of the race, which could play a role in the investigation. However, the primary piece of evidence will be the SMT data, which will be crucial in determining whether Dillon will face a penalty. The dramatic finish at Richmond is sure to be a hot topic of discussion in the days and weeks ahead. While Dillon holds onto his victory for now, the No. 3 team faces the possibility of a significant penalty.
Joey Logano was furious with Austin Dillon after a last-lap incident at the 2024 Richmond race.
As the race reached its climax at Richmond Raceway, Joey Logano had the checkered flag within reach, poised for his second victory of the 2024 season. But his hopes were dashed in turn 3 when Austin Dillon made an aggressive move, preventing Logano from taking the lead.
Dillon then made contact with Denny Hamlin on his way to securing the win. For Logano, it was a bitter finish, dropping him to 19th place after being so close to victory. After the race, Logano didn’t hold back his frustration, directing his anger squarely at Dillon and Richard Childress Racing. “It’s a complete sham,” Logano fumed. “There’s no question about it. [Austin Dillon] was four cars back, not even close, and then he wrecks the 11 to get ahead.
Then he goes and thanks God, holding his son. That’s just a load of crap. It’s nowhere near the truth. Man, I get it, you’re desperate. I understand. I didn’t leave him any room in the corner, and he didn’t leave any for me. It’s racing. I’ve been there, I’ve done that, and I was waiting for it. But when you’re four cars back, there’s no way you’re making that turn. So instead, he wrecks another car and takes out [Denny Hamlin] to get the win. What a piece of garbage.”
Logano came within one lap of securing his second win of the 2024 NASCAR season, only to leave Richmond with a disappointing top-20 finish. While NASCAR debates whether Dillon will face a penalty, the outcome remains unchanged for Logano and Team Penske. Logano lost the victory and five crucial playoff points, losses that can’t be recovered in the coming week.