NASCAR Xfinity: Ty Gibbs Explains How He Almost Caught Up With Austin Cindric in the Final Two Laps at Phoenix

The NASCAR Xfinity race at Phoenix Raceway concluded with Austin Cindric winning. However, he had to face stern competition from Ty Gibbs in his second-ever Xfinity race. In the end, Gibbs had to settle for second place but gained plenty of recognition for his plucky efforts.

After the race, he spoke about the final restart during the overtime. At the time, he was running in fifth place, but an incredible move saw him vault up to second place behind Cindric. He said, “My restarts were terrible, that’s something I got to work on. He kind of took the inside and then just threw it in there. At that point, I just checked up, because I was going to get drove into the fence.”

As a result, Gibbs backed out of the attempt and let him go. Then, once a few drivers took themselves out, the Joe Gibbs driver crossed over to the other side. From that point onwards, he decided to train his focus on Cindric’s #22 car. Gibbs noted that he made some great gains, but there was no time to pass.

What else did Ty Gibbs say?

He confessed that he got a little bit tight in the dirty air. So, when he got some clean air, the car handled a lot better. It also helped that Cindric drifted wide a little, which allowed Ty Gibbs to get right on his tail. However, it was too late for the youngster, and Cindric stormed to his second Xfinity win of the 2021 season.

Admittedly, Gibbs himself has been in sublime form and bagged second place in just his second start. Considering that he won on his debut, it only serves to strengthen his position for the 2022 season. In other words, a number of teams will definitely want to pursue him for a full-time contract.

MORE: WATCH: Austin Cindric Holds Off Ty Gibbs in a Thrilling Finish in NASCAR Xfinity Race at Phoenix