Denny Hamlin, the experienced Joe Gibbs Racing driver, is not one to shy away from vocalizing his opinions. This trait was clearly showcased during the press conference at Talladega this past Saturday. Hamlin notably criticized the newly announced ‘Promoter’s Caution’ for the upcoming NASCAR All-Star Race.
As part of the changes, a competition yellow could be displayed at any time during the race between laps 100 and 200. This new rule is designed to enhance the excitement of the race, however, it has met with some skepticism.
When asked about the ability of Marcus Smith, the Promoter, to throw a caution during the latter half of the race, Hamlin offered a seemingly dismissive response. “I don’t know how it’s much different from what we already have truthfully,” he retorted to Fox’s Bob Pockrass.
Other drivers also echoed Hamlin’s sentiment. Chase Elliott earlier this week disclosed his thoughts on SiriusXM NASCAR Radio. “Yeah, I mean, I’m not opposed to it,” Elliott started, “I think that there’s been some questionable cautions thrown in the course of the history of the sport in general. So I’d just as soon know that that’s coming and that’s the plan beforehand that they have one that they’re gonna throw that they’ve announced is gonna be for entertainment purposes.”
The All-Star Race will take place on May 18th at North Wilkesboro Speedway. Given the drivers’ apprehensions about these rules, this rendition of the race may offer unique dynamics that deviate from previous competitions. Fans and spectators alike will want to tune into FS1 at 8 P.M. ET to assess whether these alterations positively affect the entertainment value and fairness of the race.
