Richard Childress has expressed his thoughts on the rejection of both appeals regarding the penalties following Austin Dillon’s contentious victory at Richmond Raceway. The RCR owner, visibly disheartened, considers the loss of over $1,000,000 to be the largest fine in NASCAR history.
The #3 Chevy team faced a 25-point deduction and lost their chance to participate in the 2024 NASCAR playoffs after Dillon secured his first win of the season at Richmond on August 11. In a dramatic finish, Dillon collided with Joey Logano and Denny Hamlin on the final lap of the Cook Out 400.
In a recent discussion, the 78-year-old Richard Childress conveyed his frustration after the Final Appeal Officer dismissed their appeal, suggesting that this ruling could significantly impact the future of NASCAR racing. He remarked (via Bob Pockrass):
“Their decision has forever altered NASCAR racing on the final lap. Drivers now think they understand the boundaries,” Childress stated. “If you’re a car length back—two-and-three-quarters to be exact—and the other car slows down by 3 miles an hour on the last lap, you might need to nudge them a bit to get them up the track. Is that no longer acceptable?”
What sets the limits? If you’re battling someone around the corner and they lose control, like Hamlin did, does that mean you’re out of the Chase? That’s all I have to say regarding the ruling. It has certainly altered the competitive landscape for winning races, Childress remarked.
On the financial implications of losing the appeal, Richard Childress expressed:
“It’s over a million dollars for us. The biggest fine in NASCAR history. I’m just really disappointed, truly disappointed. That’s all I can convey.”
Currently, Dillon retains his victory at Richmond but will miss out on the upcoming playoffs.
Dillon and #8 Kyle Busch have just one more opportunity to secure a playoff spot with the Richard Childress team.
“It’s tough to ignore the data,” NASCAR President shared his perspective on the fine levied against Richard Childress Racing.
During an episode of Kevin Harvick’s Happy Hour podcast, NASCAR president Steve Phelps reflected on the chaotic final lap at the Cook Out 400 race at Richmond Raceway, stating that a line had indeed been crossed.
Austin Dillon, the driver for Richard Childress Racing, became the center of attention after his controversial moves against Team Penske’s Logano and JGR’s Hamlin, which ultimately led him to victory. Consequently, NASCAR officials imposed a penalty on Dillon and his team for the incident.
In a discussion with former NASCAR driver Harvick, NASCAR President Phelps provided insight into the penalty and the potential dangers posed to Dillon’s competitors. He remarked:
“It all unfolded in an instant — two incidents occurred almost simultaneously. There was a situation in Turn 3, followed by another in Turn 4, and then the race wrapped up… The second maneuver was a hook, in our view, supported by both visual evidence and data. It’s tough to dispute the data, right?”
Phelps further emphasized:
“Moreover, he also endangered another competitor. Denny experienced a significant impact, arguably one of the most severe in this Next Gen car. We believe a line was crossed here.”
Take a look at the thrilling final lap of the Cook Out 400 race at Richmond Raceway.
