The Cook Out 400 race saw RCR driver Dillon secure his first victory of the 2024 season in dramatic fashion, taking out Logano and Joe Gibbs Racing’s Denny Hamlin on the final lap. Logano, driving the #22 car and aiming for his second win, was spun out by Dillon in Turn 3. In response to the incident, a frustrated Logano performed a burnout, which led to a $50,000 fine for safety violations.
In a recent interview with Fox Sports’ Bob Pockrass, Joey Logano acknowledged the fine imposed by NASCAR but stood by his actions on pit road. He stated, “I recognize that what I did might not have been the best choice. I had full control of my car and never intended to hit anyone. Running someone over was never on my mind; I was just really frustrated at that moment.”
Recently, Joey Logano expressed his thoughts on the NASCAR penalty he received for his actions on pit road following the Richmond race. The Team Penske driver was caught doing a burnout in frustration as he passed Austin Dillon’s pit area.
“I get the optics of the situation. If you’re on the receiving end, you might not realize I’m not trying to hit anyone. So, I can see why the penalty was issued… But I’m not a machine; I’m a person,” Logano remarked.
Additionally, the two-time Cup Series champion likened his behavior on pit road to a scenario where a burglar invades your home. He explained, “It’s like someone breaking into your house, stealing your belongings, and then a minute later, you see them celebrating in your yard with your stuff. How would you react?”
Furthermore, Joey Logano wasn’t alone in facing penalties; Austin Dillon from Richard Childress Racing also received a 25-point deduction, and the NASCAR governing body stripped him of his playoff spot due to the controversial victory at Richmond Raceway.
NASCAR Senior Vice President of Competitions, Elton Sawyer, recently engaged in a thought-provoking discussion with renowned journalist Jeff Gluck, where he shared his perspectives on the contentious actions exhibited by drivers Joey Logano and Austin Dillon during a recent race. Sawyer, who boasts an impressive background as a former NASCAR driver with over 400 races to his name, provided valuable insights into the unwritten rules and boundaries that govern the sport.
In his conversation, Sawyer underscored the fact that drivers are acutely aware of the limits within the competitive landscape of NASCAR. He remarked, “As a race car driver, they absolutely know where the line is. Although it’s been a while since I raced, I can assure you I was always conscious of that line.” This statement reflects the deep understanding that seasoned drivers possess regarding the nuances of racing, where strategy and skill often intertwine with the physicality of the sport.
Sawyer elaborated on the nature of intense NASCAR racing, acknowledging that it often involves elements such as bumping, leaving tire marks, and nudging competitors out of their preferred racing lines in pursuit of victory. He described these actions as integral components of the game, highlighting the competitive spirit that drives drivers to push the limits in their quest for success. However, he also made it clear that the events that unfolded on Sunday night crossed a threshold that he deemed unacceptable.
By emphasizing the importance of maintaining respect and sportsmanship on the track, Sawyer’s comments serve as a reminder of the delicate balance that exists in NASCAR racing. While aggressive tactics can be part of the strategy, there are lines that should not be crossed, and the integrity of the sport must be upheld. His insights not only shed light on the specific incident involving Logano and Dillon but also contribute to the broader conversation about the evolving nature of competition in NASCAR and the responsibilities that come with being a professional driver.
