The Richmond race was filled with drama from start to finish. Beginning with NASCAR’s decision regarding wet tires, which set the stage for an eventful race. The drama escalated towards the end with a late restart just ahead of the final two laps, prompted by an incident involving Kyle Larson and Bubba Wallace. Despite the chaos, Denny Hamlin managed to capitalize on a remarkable 9-second pit stop, enabling him to make a decisive move against his teammate and clinch his second victory of the season.
However, the last restart brought some sort of uncertainty over Denny Hamlin’s move as it seemed like Hamlin put his throttle ahead of the line which raised questions about the race winner. To make things clear NASCAR Insider shed light on the matter.
NASCAR VP of Competition spilled the beans
Elton Sawyer said they reviewed the final restart and while close, Denny Hamlin didn’t jump the restart. pic.twitter.com/zRZOvfqpQr
— Bob Pockrass (@bobpockrass) April 1, 2024
When questions and doubts arose, Bob Pockrass reached out to Elton Sawyer, who revealed that NASCAR reviewed the restart and determined that Denny Hamlin’s #11 car appeared to be the control car. This critical decision altered the course of the race, particularly for Martin Truex Jr., who was poised for victory. Denny Hamlin dedicated the victory to his pit crew and why not they played a crucial role for the driver to take a lead after the late caution.
However, a pivotal restart ahead of the final two laps of the stage shifted the outcome for the #19 driver. Additionally, Denny Hamlin’s lightning-fast pit stop ultimately secured him the victory.
The final restart drama at Richmond
As the laps were winding down, Martin Truex Jr. seemed poised for victory. His name was practically etched on the trophy.
However, fate intervened. A late caution flag forced an overtime finish. Denny Hamlin, Joey Logano, Martin Truex Jr and many cars decided to pit during the late caution.
In the end, Denny Hamlin, seizing the opportunity, executed a remarkable restart. His strategic move propelled him to Victory Lane, securing his second win of the season.
