During the NASCAR Xfinity race at Homestead-Miami, Noah Gragson was robbed of a race victory. On this occasion, a rapidly decelerating David Starr gave him the shock of his life. What made it even more heartbreaking was the fact that Gragson was dominating the race.

Already, the JR Motorsports team was suffering through a difficult day in the office. Justin Allgaier retired from the race a while ago, Michael Annett had just pitted. Finally, race leader Gragson went nose-first into the backmarker. The incident took place with two laps to go, and Start was the last man on the lead lap.

Some suggested that Starr was low on fuel, which could explain why he had backed off so much. However, it soon transpired that the #13 driver picked up a puncture and careened into the wall. It was just unfortunate that Noah Gragson was at the wrong place at the wrong time.

What did Noah Gragson say about the incident?

Speaking to Fox Sports, he said, “Its a shame, we dominated in the last three races, including this race. Then we’ve had stuff happen like that, but it’s definitely a bummer. It’s really unfortunate, but if there is one thing we know how to do, and that’s rebound.

“Keep our heads up and be grateful for the opportunity.”

Gragson even praised Tyler Reddick, who won the race initially. According to the #9 driver, he had dreamed about racing him, especially since he is a Cup driver. Now, all that he can do is rue on what could have been, for a short period of time.

From there, he can move on quickly onto the next race at Las Vegas. Incidentally, the Las Vegas Motor Speedway is his home track, and he will be desperate for a win there.

In the opening race of the season, he crashed out, before finishing 28th at the Daytona road course, and now this result. So, safe to say, Gragson is desperate for validation and redemption.

READ MORE: NASCAR Xfinity Star Noah Gragson Opens Up On Preparation for 2021 Daytona 500 Qualifying