Kevin Harvick’s NASCAR career is one of remarkable accolades, fierce rivalries, and, as some fans would argue, controversial moments. Known as “The Closer” for his uncanny ability to finish races strong, Harvick retired in 2023 after a storied 23-year career in the NASCAR Cup Series. With 60 career wins, a 2014 championship, and a reputation as one of the sport’s fiercest competitors, Harvick’s name is etched into the annals of NASCAR history.

But for all the accolades and success, Harvick’s career hasn’t aged gracefully in the eyes of some fans. In the year following his retirement, NASCAR enthusiasts have taken to social media to reexamine his legacy, and the results have been far from unanimous. One particularly biting comment even likened Harvick’s more controversial moments to those of Austin Dillon, a comparison that has ignited debate across the NASCAR fanbase.

Kevin Harvick’s career was one full of highs, lows, and controversies

Harvick burst onto the NASCAR scene in 2001 under extraordinary circumstances, replacing the legendary Dale Earnhardt Sr just days after the icon’s tragic death at the Daytona 500. Harvick quickly proved his worth, winning in just his third Cup start at Atlanta Motor Speedway. For many, he carried the weight of Earnhardt’s legacy while carving out his own path, a task he undertook with grit and determination.

Over the next two decades, Harvick built a career defined by consistency and aggression. His 60 career wins place him ninth on NASCAR’s all-time win list, and he earned the 2014 Cup Series championship during a dominant season with Stewart-Haas Racing. Harvick also made a name for himself as a no-nonsense driver, unafraid to ruffle feathers on and off the track.

But that same aggressive nature led to several controversies throughout his career. One of the most infamous came during the 2015 playoff race at Talladega, where Harvick was accused of intentionally wrecking Trevor Bayne to ensure his advancement to the next round. Though Harvick denied the allegations, the incident remains a hot topic among fans.

Another flashpoint came at Bristol in 2002, where Harvick’s on-track altercation with Greg Biffle led to a post-race confrontation that underscored his fiery temperament. Harvick’s willingness to “win at all costs” earned him respect from some fans but disdain from others, who viewed his tactics as crossing the line. Recently, a fan on X pointed out how frequently Kevin Harvick used to wreck other drivers, which sparked a huge discussion.

As the years passed, Kevin Harvick evolved into a respected elder statesman of the sport, but his early career controversies and hard-nosed driving style remain fresh in the minds of many fans.

Fan reactions: A mixed bag

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The reassessment of Harvick’s legacy reached new heights when a fan on Twitter sparked a firestorm of debate by comparing Harvick’s controversial moments to those of Austin Dillon. “It’s a good thing Harvick was a really great driver because this guy had an Austin Dillon-level highlight reel of wrecking or trying to wreck people unprovoked just to help himself, and everyone casually forgets that,” the fan wrote.

One of Austin Dillon’s most recent wrecks saw him get stripped of his playoff eligibility. The driver wrecked Denny Hamlin and Joey Logano to win the race at Richmond Raceway in 2024. NASCAR let Dillon keep his win but for his actions, he was not granted a seat in the playoffs, which is normally granted to any driver with a regular season win.

The comment opened the floodgates, with fans both defending and criticizing Harvick’s career. Some fans pointed out specific incidents that they felt exemplified Harvick’s controversial nature. “The Larson save was crazy impressive, but I’m surprised Harvick never got more flak for those incidents, especially the Glen one,” one fan noted, referencing Kyle Larson’s dramatic save during a Harvick-initiated skirmish.

Some fans were more blunt in their assessment. “Extremely dirty driver. Some people like a ‘win at all costs’ driver, but I always found his tactics to be dirty and oftentimes rather juvenile,” one critic commented.

The 2015 Talladega incident was also a flashpoint. “I still can’t believe a single penalty wasn’t hammered down after 2015 Talladega,” a fan remarked, highlighting the lingering resentment over NASCAR’s handling of the situation.

Not everyone was on board with the criticism, though. “Leave my man alone,” one fan countered, defending Harvick’s aggressive style. Another added, “Man was literally born an Earnhardt replacement,” acknowledging the immense pressure Harvick faced early in his career as well his ruthlessness reminiscent of the great shoes he had to fill.

As fans debate Kevin Harvick’s career, the conversation highlights how legacies in sports are rarely straightforward. Harvick’s supporters see a fierce competitor who thrived in the face of immense pressure, while his detractors view him as a driver whose aggression often crossed the line.

One thing is certain: Harvick’s impact on NASCAR is undeniable. His championship, consistency, and knack for delivering in high-pressure moments solidify his place among the sport’s greats. But as fans continue to revisit his career, the nuances of his legacy will remain a topic of passionate discussion.

In retirement, Harvick has transitioned into a broadcasting role, lending his expertise to the FOX Sports NASCAR team. Whether behind the wheel or behind the microphone, Harvick’s influence on the sport endures—controversies and all. And as fans dissect his career, one thing becomes clear: Kevin Harvick may have left the track, but he hasn’t left the conversation.