NASCAR has never been a stranger to controversies or drama. In fact, it’s arguably these raw confrontations and issues that keep the fans hooked to the sport. But this time, things are a little different.
So, what is actually causing all the smoke? Well, the last week’s race in Phoenix was in the headlines more than it should have been. With fans almost standing divided on the topic, it seems the sport’s governing body has hit a pothole! NASCAR really seems to be facing the heat from fandom this time!
As you might have guessed, Denny Hamlin is the point of focus here. After what was an exciting race, the Joe Gibbs Racing driver is now facing repercussions for his actions!
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So what did Denny Hamlin do that’s causing the rumble?
Most fans are hugely disappointed and furious about NASCAR’s decision. So, what exactly is causing the massive uproar?
As it turns out, Denny Hamlin came out as too honest while talking about what happened in Phoenix in his popular Action Detrimental podcast. And in a rather unbelievable turn of events, NASCAR has actually fined the 42-year-old $50,000 and shaved off 25 driver points from him.
Following the race in Phoenix where Denny had pushed his old foe Ross Chastain to the wall, he has come out openly admitting what he had done was intentional.
In the podcast, Denny says, “I did, I wouldn’t mistake, wouldn’t mistake, I, I unleashed, I let the wheel go and I said he’s coming with me.”
This confession seems to have done it for the driver. With the league strapping such massive penalties and shaving off points, fans have come out against the company’s ‘corrupt’ decisions.
Fans cause an uproar against NASCAR for their decision!
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Following the penalty, Denny took the matter to social media and shared his thoughts.
I won’t be making an appeal to NASCAR. However I will be making an appeal to the people. I’ll see you next Monday. #ADDH
— Denny Hamlin (@dennyhamlin) March 15, 2023
Starting off a chain reaction, fans quickly started to comment and repost the No.11 driver’s opinion. Even when Denny admitted to ramming Ross, trying to wreck him intentionally, fans took his side.
@NASCAR is so corrupt. After what happened last season and claiming to have a self policing policy they choose when to intervene randomly. Glad I no longer invest any energy in this sport and could care less where it goes.
— Tom Hansen (@thansen56) March 16, 2023
It’s totally ridiculous for this penalty if they can’t get it the day of the race then it’s over! This is not a court case, your now censoring the ability for drivers to talk openly about races, what’s the statue of limitations! Really disappointed in this decision the world is… https://t.co/w1reaPVSvM
— Retired Redhead (@RedheadRetired) March 16, 2023
When you come on the air next week, just say you were kidding, you really didn't wreck Ross on purpose. I mean since NASCAR believed what you said the first time, why wouldn't they believe you were "just kidding"?
— Family Man (@TeamKFBfan8) March 15, 2023
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I for one have no problem with what you did. I do not like showboaters. I only wish Nascar would have fined him as well. I hope you win the championship this year. #ADDH but can u dm me what ADDH stands for??? ❤️❤️❤️🤗🤗🤗🏁🏁🏁
— Janis Rothermel (@JanisRothermel) March 15, 2023
With fans enraged, NASCAR has got a serious situation here. Many from the racing community felt the penalty was too much and the company should’ve let the drivers settle it on the tracks instead.
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WATCH THIS STORY: Denny Hamlin hands Kyle Busch a GOAT contention.
Now, with newer controversies popping out of the blue, it certainly looks like the 2023 season is about to finally take off.