Erik Jones expressed frustration toward Kyle Larson after being forced sideways by Larson’s aggressive maneuver in the final laps of the Daytona race held Saturday night. Speaking to Toby Christie of Sports Illustrated, Jones questioned whether Larson’s repeated shoves were justified, highlighting the intensity of the confrontation near the race’s conclusion.
I don’t know. I got to ask Kyle,
Erik Jones said.
The run before, you can see the seven (Justin Haley) and I working really well together and pushing to the lead. Even the 22 (Joey Logano), the 17 (Chris Buescher), all of us were working really well together and pushing the lead when we could and taking the runs for what they were.
The five (Larson) there got behind us and was just super aggressive, just kind of bulldogging through us. He kept getting me a little more and a little more out of shape, and it was just too much at one time. Fortunately, we didn’t wreck but I gotta ask him. I dont know what his thought was. It wasn’t really helping us go forward, it was kind of slowing us down before I got to far out of shpae. I just got to see what his thought was.
Erik Jones’ Difficult Season and Final Daytona Showing
The 2024 NASCAR season posed many challenges for Erik Jones, with only four top-10 finishes throughout the regular schedule. Despite these struggles, Jones managed to secure a fifth-place finish at Daytona, a race where victory seemed within reach before Larson’s forceful push affected his momentum. The win ultimately went to Ryan Blaney, who climbed from 13th starting position to claim victory. Jones will now continue to seek a playoff berth in the following season.
Earlier this year, Jones faced disqualification at Martinsville after his No. 43 car failed post-race inspection, adding to the difficulties of the season. His last NASCAR win came in 2022 during the Southern 500, marking a significant gap since his previous triumph.
Jones’ Commitment to Legacy Motor Club Amidst Challenges
At the conclusion of the 2024 season, Erik Jones solidified his future by signing a contract extension with Legacy Motor Club. This decision signals both commitment and belief in progression despite a tough season. Jimmie Johnson, NASCAR legend and co-owner of Legacy Motor Club, spoke highly of Jones’ abilities and the potential impact he brings.
Erik is one of the most talented drivers in NASCAR, I’ve had the chance to race against him and have had a chance to watch him drive for other teams and the Club,
Johnson said.
I admire his talent and am glad we will have him race for us for the upcoming years. Erik will be a key to helping us turn our program around and we look forward to giving him the tools he needs to go out on Sundays and race for wins and eventually a championship someday.
Additional NASCAR Race Highlights and Context
Throughout the Detroit race weekend, collaboration among drivers such as Jones, Justin Haley, Joey Logano, and Chris Buescher demonstrated strong teamwork to push for leading positions. However, Larson’s aggressive approach disrupted this balance, making the final laps intense and unpredictable. This dynamic underscores the fierce competition as drivers vie for top spots and playoff opportunities in the NASCAR circuit.
