Denny Hamlin is incredibly frustrated with the additional caution period that resulted in a defeat for him in Texas.
Kevin Harvick and Denny Hamlin (Via IMAGO)
The recent NASCAR Cup Series race in Texas was a chaotic event, with the Hendrick Motorsports driver ending his winless streak of 42 races and securing a spot in the playoffs. The race was filled with incidents, including a last-lap crash involving , and there were also questionable caution periods.
One of these caution periods occurred just before overtime, as noted by Joe Gibbs Racing driver, . Hamlin’s No. 11 Toyota was one of the fastest cars on the track and he was a strong contender for the win. However, with just eight laps to go, he spun while trying to pass Chase Elliott for the lead. This resulted in NASCAR waving the yellow flag.
Hamlin pointed out that this caution period lasted longer than it should have. He stated that several laps were completed without any safety vehicles or debris on the track. The three-time Daytona 500 winner suspects that this was done to accommodate a commercial break, and he is very frustrated with the wasted laps.
The veteran driver emphasized that he would have had a chance to secure the win in Texas despite the crash if there hadn’t been so many caution laps. He explained that if there are more than two laps remaining after a restart, it is possible to regain the lead from the leader. However, during restarts in overtime with only two laps, this is not possible.
Although Hamlin has valid points regarding the extended caution period in Texas, ultimately, the rule applies to everyone and in motorsports, rules often work against the driver who is not in the lead. He still has many races ahead in the season to make a comeback.
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