The race manipulation debate’s a hot topic in NASCAR right now since the Charlotte race’s controversial ending last Sunday. More than Shane van Gisbergen’s win, the playoff drama was in its full element as Ross Chastain and Joey Logano battled for the final seat to enter the Round of 8. And the one who got sandwiched between the ruckus was none other than Denny Hamlin, oblivious of the points situation to side with anyone.

Had he known of it, he would’ve stayed away from Chastain, he had said. But that ‘had he’ is the main catch, as NASCAR doesn’t want drivers discussing points. Hamlin feels they should be aware. Everyone’s pouring their hot takes on this, and when this was asked to Hendrick Motorsports’ Chase Elliott, he shared what he feels about it from Hamlin’s shoes.

Chase Elliott has a clear goal

NASCAR journalist Dustin Long explained the dilemma that Hamlin faced (had he known) in that final lap situation — if he passed Chastain, the latter was out, and if he didn’t, farewell for Logano. “So is that race manipulation or is that if you’re trying top play the long game, because you could have been in that situation?” he straight-up put the ball in Elliott’s court.

“Yeah, so tough. Where the line is there, with all the rules and things that we have in place nowadays. Fortunately for us, we weren’t in that position and hopefully we can put ourselves in a similar spot this round. Not have to worry about any of that stuff.”

Elliott’s happy for himself and team Hendrick. He is relieved he didn’t get to make that tough choice, and hopes to continue staying out of that trouble.

“That’s the goal, so again coming back to your question Dustin, it’s just me controlling the things that I can control. Do the job I think we’re capable of doing, over the course of these next three weeks. I think that’s our focus, that’s what I’m worried about. Whoever gets in, so be it and hopefully we’re one of the four.”

The No. 9 definitely ticks on the wisdom check. His eyes are just on the races, just like the racehorses looking only in front, blocking all the distractions. His “me controlling the things that I can control” mindset reflects a veteran’s approach — switching off the external noise and letting his consistent performance decide whether he or his HMS team earns a spot among the final four contenders.

But Hamlin, the one who bore the brunt of it, has now dug out the deeper issue as to why the points awareness matters. “So we always have those scenarios where we’re picking and choosing.” It’s normal for drivers to team up and help each other, even if it means putting their own position in jeopardy. So if one can choose a partner for this, why not choose to pass or not pass a car as per the championship picture?

Even Team Penske’s Ryan Blaney shed light on the confusing position the situation puts one in, “It’s tough because it’s like you got the teams or manufacturers saying these things and as a driver you’re kind of handcuffed to an extent… and I kind of need to do what my team is asking me to do. It’s… a mucky situation.”

HMS drivers mess up while Hamlin scores record win at Vegas

Hendrick Motorsports has bad news for two of its drivers at Vegas. William Byron, who was looking in a good winning position, crashed into Ty Dillon’s left rear as the latter was about to enter the pit road. It was a miscommunication issue, as their spotters failed to convey the updates to their drivers. Both drivers had to unfortunately retire, with serious playoff implications for Byron.

It’s not just Byron. Chase Elliott also cost himself three positions as he overshot his pit stall by a few crucial feet. The entire pit crew faced problems loading up the car. But while HMS drivers suffered, the anti-hero of NASCAR did it again.

JGR’s Denny Hamlin has won his record 60th win at Las Vegas, and he locks himself into the Championship 4 for the first time since 2021. Tears rolled in just as he crossed the line, “I don’t know what to say. Thank you.” 

So many emotions involved for the No. 11. His dad has been unwell, and he had dedicated his last one to him. And now, the Championship 4 entry, the 60 wins record, all amidst the charter lawsuit on one side, the whole picture’s too overwhelming for the 44-year-old veteran.

The Joe Gibbs Racing star took the lead from teammate Chase Briscoe with just two laps remaining for his sixth win this season, the highest in the series.