“James Small S**ks”—Fans’ Anger Boils Over as Joe Gibbs’s Star Employee Leaves Martin Truex Jr Out to Dry

Las Vegas has always been known for its high-stakes gambling. Still, no one expected the risks to rise so high on the Las Vegas Motor Speedway (LVMS) during the NASCAR Cup playoff Round of 8. As racecar drivers darted around the tracks and vied for their place in the final four, a gamble made by Joe Gibbs Racing left fans fuming, tires bursting, and crew chief of Martin Truex Jr apologizing.

The LVMS, with its signature 1.5-mile track and a whopping purse of $7,785,320, stands as a monumental speedway in NASCAR, hosting an electrifying blend of speed, strategy, and stunning upsets. Banking a consistent 20 degrees on Turns 1 & 2 and 3 & 4, plus 9 degrees on the front stretch & back stretch, it’s a track that has historically been tough on the right rear tires, demanding smooth coordination between drivers and crew chiefs, as well as smart tire strategy.

The crucial decision that derailed Martin Truex Jr 

Within the neon-clad landscape of Las Vegas, champions like Joey Logano and Martin Truex Jr have raced their way into history. Yet, the raceway does not always favor the playoff participants, despite no non-playoff driver having won a playoff race here. A mere glance at past performances reveals fluctuating fortunes, even among the champions in the playoffs since 2018.

The true drama of the day centered around Martin Truex Jr and the intriguing pit-stop decisions of his crew chief, James Small. Opting to stay out and not change tires proved disastrous for Truex Jr. The anguished radio transmission told it all. “F**king terrible,” exclaimed Truex after slipping to the 16th place, clearly disheartened.

James Small had a remorseful response: “I’m sorry. We completely f**ked that up.” Truex Jr then cursed on the radio stating,“I almost didn’t listen to you, but I’m not really good at that. …”. To which Small added,“Yeah you should not have listened clearly. We have no idea what we’re doing.”

It’s a day neither will forget anytime soon.

Watch This Story:  $3.6 Billion Tire Company’s Blunder Cost Martin Truex Jr. His Shot at Another Title

Twitter erupts after the gamble taken on Truex Jr

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In the glittering playground of Las Vegas Motor Speedway, Martin Truex Jr’s gamble sent shockwaves through fans and experts alike. The aftermath? A Twitter tirade that saw followers and fanatics dissecting the pit-stop strategy and decision-making.

A fan Tweeted the radio conversation between Martin Truex Jr and his crew chief, “Damn, I’m struggling. … That was probably too big of a gamble too early. Martin Truex Jr”

Jeff Gluck wrote on his Twitter, “Truex is dropping anchor. Big trouble. They have really taken themselves out of good track position with this call. Question is how long Truex can hang on. He’s down to P11 now.”
“Big surprise. His team making another piss poor decision to cost him,” one fan wrote.
Another added, “This will be the quote of the playoffs.”
“James Small s**ks,” third chimed in.
Others wrote, “I had a bad feeling about that call as well.”
“Will everyone finally agree that Small is not a competent crew chief!”
“Another James small moment.”

The NASCAR Cup playoff is just warming up. If Las Vegas is any indication, there are more unexpected turns ahead. The Phoenix finale beckons, and we can’t wait to see who will burn rubber and race their way into history!

READ MORE: “Knock on Wood”- Martin Truex Jr Sticks by Goodyear Amidst HMS’ Worsening Misery