The Talladega race proved to be a roller coaster ride for Riley Herbst, who found himself in the midst of controversy due to a controversial move in the final laps of the race. Despite finishing second behind race winner Jesse Love, Herbst’s maneuver sparked debate and scrutiny. Meanwhile, his teammate Hailie Deegan faced adversity and finished 12th after being pushed back in the pack.
Riley Herbst said he was expecting a question about not working with Ford teammate Hailie Deegan on the final laps at Talladega. He said he was doing what was best for him: pic.twitter.com/VLQhPiOXWw
— Bob Pockrass (@bobpockrass) April 26, 2024
In a recent interview with Bob Pockrass, Riley Herbst addressed the topic of the last race and the controversial move he made. He expressed his perspective, stating, “I’ve watched (the finish),” Herbst said Friday at Dover Motor Speedway. “I’ve heard everybody’s opinions. I just don’t understand. Am I not allowed to pass people on a green-white-checkered?”
Hailie Deegan and Riley Herbst: A Controversial Last-Lap Clash at Talladega
As the race entered double overtime, Deegan found herself in contention for a career-best finish. She was running strong in the top group, hoping to secure a victory. But fate had other plans.
On the final lap, Riley Herbst, also a Ford driver, made a decisive move. Instead of pushing and helping Deegan, he went around her, ultimately finishing second behind Chevrolet driver Jesse Love. Deegan, unfortunately, fell back to 12th place.
Deegan’s team expressed their dissatisfaction over the radio after the race. They believed that Herbst’s move cost them a better finish. But Herbst defended his actions, stating that he didn’t understand the criticism. He argued that he had every right to pass Deegan on the green-white-checkered restart. After all, racing is about going for the win, and he believed he had a shot at victory.
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