The NASCAR Cup Series at Kansas Speedway ended in turmoil on Sunday after a double-overtime finish created dramatic tension on the final lap. Bubba Wallace led the pack as the white flag waved, battling closely with Christopher Bell and Denny Hamlin in the closing moments of the race, highlighting a fierce competition for the win.
Final Lap Collision Alters Outcome
During the second overtime restart, Wallace and Bell grappled for position near the front. As they approached turn four, the two drivers ran wide, allowing Hamlin to gain momentum behind them. Wallace maintained the lead entering turn two, but Hamlin made a bold move in turn three, driving deep and pushing Wallace toward the outside wall. This aggressive action caused both drivers to lose speed, allowing Chase Elliott to overtake them and take the victory by a narrow margin.
Reactions From The Drivers Involved
Denny Hamlin spoke candidly about the race afterward, expressing his frustration.
“Wanted it bad. It would have been sixty for me. Got the restart I needed just couldn’t finish it there on the last corner,”
he said after the event. He admitted the car was exceptional but faced challenges, including low voltage and no power steering at a critical point. Hamlin also revealed the win was personal.
“I wanted it for my dad, for everybody. Just wanted it a little bit too hard,”
he added.
Bubba Wallace, who drives the No. 23 car for 23XI Racing—a team co-owned by Hamlin—was sharply critical of the move that ended his chance for victory.
“Two years ago, I’d probably said something dumb. I mean, he’s a dumbass for that move, for sure. I don’t care if he’s my boss or not,”
Wallace said. Despite the tension, Wallace acknowledged the team’s performance:
“To even have a shot at the win, with the way we started, you could have fooled me. Because we were not good.”
Wallace’s remarks reflected the disappointment felt after conceding the race to Chevrolet when Elliott took the win.
“But, we’re going for the win. I hate that we gave it to Chevrolet there,”
he stated.
Context of Team Dynamics and Previous Incidents
The tensions between Hamlin and Wallace were intensified by recent developments involving Hamlin and Joe Gibbs Racing teammate Ty Gibbs, who were involved in an on-track confrontation the week prior at New Hampshire. Hamlin’s ownership role with 23XI Racing, which fields Wallace’s car, adds a complex dynamic to the competitive rivalry seen on track.
Implications for NASCAR Season and Fan Reactions
The dramatic finish and internal conflicts among top drivers at Kansas Speedway underscore the high stakes and intense emotions that define the NASCAR Cup Series. With the points battle continuing, how Hamlin and Wallace reconcile will likely impact their performances in upcoming races. Fans and analysts will closely watch whether this rivalry affects team cohesion or fuels further competitive fire as the season progresses.
