While the NASCAR nation was eagerly anticipating a dramatic and thrilling race at the “tough” Darlington, what they didn’t expect was an odd and humiliating lapse on the organization’s part. With the playoff rounds starting off at the 1.3-mile short track, fans were excited to see the 367-lap race unravel under the lights, but they sure weren’t hoping to witness the major flaw.
Despite the lapse, the organization did its best to cover up its shortcomings, but enraged fans weren’t having any of it as they brutally slammed the organization.
NASCAR Cup Series playoff takes an awkward turn at Darlington
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The scene is crucial at the tight and technical short track infamous for its treachery, but to the field’s misery, Darlington’s sundown race took an unexpected turn when the lights went off in lap 189. With the drivers blinded by the sudden disruption, NASCAR had no option but to throw in the red flag, urging the cars to come to a halt in the backstretch.
The whole racing community joined in on this one as they doubled down on the organization’s petty lapse despite the odds being so high on such a tough and dangerous track.
Racing communication specialist for NASCAR, Mike Forde, updated fans about the issue with a tweet that read, “NASCAR working with power company to work on junction boxes in turn 3. Handful of drivers expressed concern on going back green.”
NASCAR working with power company to work on junction boxes in turn 3. Handful of drivers expressed concern on going back green. Don't believe this will be a lengthy break.
— Mike Forde (@mforde) September 4, 2023
While there have been numerous instances in the past of similar incidents, something this petty in the playoff rounds with a packed crowd in the stands riled up fans. Moreover, bringing up the red flag in such a critical part of the race also raised some eyebrows, with NASCAR’s credibility in question.
So conflicted. Lights to the right. No lights to the left. pic.twitter.com/snIOfWIwqQ
— Bob Pockrass (@bobpockrass) September 4, 2023
Prominent NASCAR reporter and enthusiast, Bob Pockrass too chimed in, exposing the bizarre incident online with his tweet.
READ MORE: 4-Time Winner Denny Hamlin Ready To Create History at Darlington Against Unfavorable Odds
Fans slam NASCAR for their petty lapse
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With many laps wasted under the red flag, fans had enough of the whole fiasco. They quickly jumped into the scene with their takes, brutally slamming the organization for their negligence.
Many questioned how NASCAR could make such a grave error on their part,
“I mean u think they would check the lights before the race starts”
While others slammed its miserable race control and odd strategies.
“About 10 laps too late. It’s unreal how bad they are at race control”
So many laps wasted. Nascar screwed this one up
— br (@NE_Mod_Fan) September 4, 2023
On the other hand, some fans also believed it was the right decision from NASCAR but came a little bit late,
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“That’s the right call, do wish it came earlier though”
Whereas another user delivered a sarcastic blow, saying,
“Need everyone in the infield to report to turn 3 and 4 and turn the flashlights on their phone on”
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Fortunately, no mishap took place in the brief interval under the red considering the pace of the pack and the track’s notorious reputation.