The Bank of America Roval 400 concluded dramatically on March 24, 2024, when a last-lap maneuver by Ross Chastain of Trackhouse Racing led to a collision with Denny Hamlin from Joe Gibbs Racing. Chastain’s attempt to secure a spot in the NASCAR Cup Series Playoffs went awry as both drivers spun out, allowing Joey Logano of Team Penske to surge past them just feet from the finish line. This surprising turn of events denied Chastain a crucial advancement, ultimately leading to his elimination from the competition.
After the race, Chastain admitted to the media that his actions were “completely unacceptable.” In a show of sportsmanship, Hamlin approached Chastain for a private conversation, shielding them from the press by wrapping his arm around his competitor. This moment marked a significant turn in their relationship, especially considering the recent tensions stemming from their racing history.
In a follow-up discussion on his podcast, “Actions Detrimental,” Hamlin addressed the interaction with Chastain and reflected on the emotional aftermath of the incident. The 44-year-old driver, who also serves as a co-owner of 23XI Racing, noted that he initially hesitated to confront Chastain. However, he viewed the encounter as an opportunity for personal growth, particularly in light of a recent incident involving Bubba Wallace at Kansas Speedway.
Hamlin elaborated, “People wonder, ‘Well, you didn’t talk to Bubba. Why did you talk to Chastain?’ Well, I told you people learn, people grow. I do need to, I don’t want to let it fester. So, let me go talk to him.” He described how he approached Chastain and turned him away from the media to facilitate a more candid discussion.
While Hamlin acknowledged that he does not consider Chastain a friend, he expressed a newfound respect for him, stating, “I think that the way we raced each other in 2022 is not nearly how we raced each other today.” He emphasized that he does not hold any ill will towards Chastain and wanted to engage in an honest conversation to clear the air.
Both drivers ended the race in lower positions, finishing 21st and 23rd respectively, while Logano secured the 20th spot. Despite the setback, Hamlin and Logano advanced to the Round of 8 in the playoffs, joining Chase Elliott, Chase Briscoe, William Byron, Christopher Bell, Kyle Larson, and Ryan Blaney in the next stage of the competition.
As the NASCAR season progresses, the fallout from the Roval 400 will likely influence the dynamics among drivers as they navigate the intense pressure of the playoffs.
