On Sunday, the NASCAR world generated a lot of controversy. Austin Dillon passed Joey Logano in the last lap at Richmond to claim the lead.
Dillon was the first vehicle to cross the finish line after he also hooked Denny Hamlin. For Dillon, who started the race 32nd in the standings and needed to win to maintain his postseason eligibility, it was a significant triumph.
However, forcing two cars to collide is a contentious conclusion, and following the race, Hamlin sent a strong message to Dillon and NASCAR (h/t Bob Pockrass).
“Where’s the line?” inquired Hamlin. The problem is that although we have laws barring absurd behavior, they haven’t been effectively implemented in a while.
Here’s a different camera angle of the controversial finish: Austin Dillon makes contact with Joey Logano, taking him out to secure the win at Richmond.pic.twitter.com/kxOXU8Sb3P
— Jeff Fane (@FaneJeff25655) August 12, 2024
It’s difficult because young short track racers witness this and believe it to be OK since they watch professionals on Sunday who are expected to act like grownups and just do stupid things.
They find it astonishing that this is acceptable. Logano and Hamlin have an unhappy ending, and it raises the question of whether Dillon will face consequences.
Logano also spoke about the finish, per Nate Ryan of NBC Sports.
“It’s a joke,” Logano declared. Everything about it is a farce. I am at a loss for words. What action do you want me to take? It will undoubtedly be a contentious issue in the coming weeks, and it will be important to keep an eye on whether NASCAR takes any action.
For the time being, all that Hamlin and Logano want is for NASCAR to make some changes regarding these contentious finishes.
