Ty Dillon has emerged as the unexpected frontrunner in NASCAR’s inaugural In-Season Challenge, defying expectations as the underdog after the first two races. Driving for Kaulig Racing, Dillon captured attention not only through his surprising on-track performance but also with his colorful remarks aimed at some of NASCAR’s best drivers, including Brad Keselowski, following his upset win this past weekend at the Chicago Street Course.
How Ty Dillon Turned Into NASCAR’s Unexpected Comic
Initially seeded last in the 32-driver In-Season Challenge bracket, Ty Dillon was widely seen as an early elimination candidate. Few expected him to survive beyond the opening round. Yet Dillon stunned many by advancing past top-seeded Denny Hamlin, the three-time Daytona 500 victor, at the race in Atlanta. Hamlin fell victim to a multi-car wreck and finished 31st, while Dillon managed an eighth-place finish that propelled him forward in the competition.
Following that breakthrough, Dillon did not hesitate to poke fun at Hamlin during his post-race interview.
“All you Denny fans out there: I just knocked your favorite driver out,”
Dillon stated with a grin. —Ty Dillon, NASCAR Driver
This playful jab referenced a phrase Hamlin frequently uses after victories and showed Dillon’s emerging knack for mind games. While Hamlin said on his podcast that he appreciated the joke, Dillon was just getting started with his friendly taunts targeting higher-seeded drivers in the bracket.
Ty Dillon’s Unexpected Triumph Over Brad Keselowski
Round Two of the In-Season Challenge saw Ty Dillon facing off against Brad Keselowski, a formidable opponent and 2012 NASCAR Cup Series champion with 36 career Cup wins. With Keselowski’s extensive résumé overshadowing Dillon’s record—over 250 starts without a Cup Series victory—Dillon entered the matchup as the clear underdog.
However, at the demanding Chicago Street Course, Dillon pulled off another major upset. Finishing 20th, Dillon advanced to the next round after Keselowski was caught in an early crash caused by Carson Hocevar and ultimately finished 37th.
Following the race, Dillon expressed pride in his team’s resilience and his own advancement.
This No. 10 Kaulig Racing Chevrolet team is just a tough team. We never quit. We don’t even know how to. I’m just so proud of Kaulig Racing and our No. 10 team.
—Ty Dillon, NASCAR Driver
Adding a touch of humor in reference to Chicago’s basketball culture, Dillon quipped,
I knew in a basketball city (Chicago), going up against Brad in a game of knockout, I was going to have a good chance,
accompanied by a wide smile. —Ty Dillon, NASCAR Driver
Looking Ahead: Dillon’s Next Challenge at Sonoma Raceway
With just eight drivers left in NASCAR’s In-Season Challenge bracket, Ty Dillon is set to face eighth-seeded Alex Bowman this coming Sunday at Sonoma Raceway. Dillon’s unexpected string of victories and confident attitude have made him a serious contender to watch as the challenge continues.
He remains focused on maintaining momentum, stating,
We’re just going to keep working hard, put pressure on who we’re facing next and see if we can keep it rolling,
demonstrating his cautious optimism and drive. —Ty Dillon, NASCAR Driver
Dillon’s continued success not only highlights the unpredictability of the NASCAR In-Season Challenge but also raises questions about the potential shakeup among the sport’s established stars. His surprising wins over elite drivers like Denny Hamlin and Brad Keselowski have made clear that the underdog is far from finished and may yet reshape the outcome of the competition in the coming weeks.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Brad Keselowski Polish?
A. Facebook is sending its best wishes to Brad Keselowski, a seasoned NASCAR driver with Polish roots. This weekend, he’ll race in the NASCAR Chicago events. Brad competes full-time in the NASCAR Cup Series, driving the No. 6 Ford Mustang Dark Horse.
