During the 2024 NASCAR Cup Series Playoffs at Homestead-Miami Speedway, a significant incident took place between Austin Dillon and Kyle Larson. As Larson aggressively pursued Dillon and leader Ryan Blaney, he attempted an overtaking maneuver which resulted in a spin-out, while Dillon held his ground on the track.
Dillon, a veteran in the sport with a notable racing heritage, has spoken out in his defense. With highlights like winning the 2018 Daytona 500 and championships in both the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series and Nationwide Series, Dillon’s perspective carries weight.
Positioned close to the wall, Dillon admitted that he wasn’t aware of Larson’s swift approach. Reflecting on the situation, he shared with Bob Pockrass from Fox Sports:
Kyle Larson said Austin Dillon didn’t do anything wrong. Dillon said he held his line and didn’t know Larson was there (as Larson said he thought is what happened). pic.twitter.com/5x3BzAplmh
— Bob Pockrass (@bobpockrass) October 27, 2024
“I was just holding my line against the wall. That was the only place I could stay,” Dillon explained. “I really thought they’d turn right under me. I honestly didn’t know the #5 was coming. In the end, I was just against the wall, and he got in too hot and clipped my left front. I didn’t do anything but stay against the wall.”
Meg Oliphant/Getty Images
Larson also defended his actions, stating, “I had a chance to win and I’m proud of my effort. I’m bummed it didn’t work out. Austin didn’t do anything wrong; I was hoping he’d notice me and give me room up top. But he kept his line, and I thought I saw an opportunity.”
Tyler Reddick from 23XI Racing ultimately claimed victory at the Straight Talk Wireless 400, securing a position in the Championship 4 at Phoenix Raceway. Reddick remarked, “I knew we were in a tough spot with tire issues, but we did what we had to do to win and fight for the championship.”
Michael Jordan, co-owner of 23XI Racing, praised Reddick’s performance, saying, “The kid drove his heart out, and I’m proud of him.”