Ty Dillon Lashes Out After Austin Cindric Incident at COTA: “Absolute Bulls–t”
Ty Dillon expressed his frustration at the EchoPark Auto Grand Prix, which took place at the Circuit of the Americas this past weekend. This was after a dramatic accident involving Austin Cindric. Dillon was visibly angry after the on-track incident that occurred at an early stage of the race.
Dillon’s raw reaction to the incident, which was heard over his radio team, showed his emotion. “I won’t say anything. But you know what’s in my mind.” That was some absolute bulls–t.” The heated exchange raises questions about on-track etiquette and potential NASCAR review.
Four laps had passed when the flashpoint took place. Dillon was seen in the video replays contacting Cindric and nudging him off course during a corner, with only minor consequences.
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Cindric acted in apparent retaliation by hitting Dillon on his right rear. This sent the 16 Chevrolet spinning. 16 Chevrolet spinning. Dillon’s Kaulig Racing team was absolutely certain of Dillon’s intention, considering the circumstances. NASCAR officials did not penalize Cindric for the race, much to their anger. NASCAR officials are still reviewing the incident.
NASCAR usually allows drivers to manage on-track conflicts with a degree of autonomy, only intervening when the actions are clearly out of line. This incident may test the established standard, particularly in the light of current discussions on excessively aggressive driving.
Austin Cindric drives the no. Team Penske’s no.2 Ford Mustang driver, Austin Cindric, is still hoping to make the most of his Daytona 500 triumph in his 2022 rookie campaign. Cindric has struggled this season, as he looks to rebound from his 28th place finish in the Ambetter 400 race at Atlanta Motor Speedway where he had previously been racing at a leading pace.
Cindric’s struggles in the recent past add another layer to their COTA fight, and may have contributed to Dillon’s aggressive actions. Cindric was in fact the leader of the previous race for a good portion, and appeared to be the eventual winner, before falling to the eighth position. This only increased the pressure on him to achieve a win.
Dillon has been working to revitalize his Cup Series with Kaulig Racing. He’s looking for long-term spots and competitive equipment. And he wants to be a competitor who is a leader in his field.
Kaulig Racing is, for me, the most exciting opportunity of my life. Dillon said, “My goals are high.” I have to demonstrate my adaptability, learn and, ultimately, lead this team towards success. “I’m here for a better performance on the intermediate track and road course, as well as to contribute to an environment that fosters learning and development among all members of this team.
“I started this sport with the goal of winning races in Cup Series. I also wanted to compete in order to get to the playoffs. And this is the best opportunity for me yet. It’s a team who has won in the Cup Series before. The team has won in the Cup Series over the past few years. It’s a new experience for me to be a member of a winning team. I am excited about this opportunity.
“I believe this is my best opportunity to demonstrate what I am capable of. I have always believed that I was a good driver and I can take advantage of the opportunities ahead for which I worked so hard.” Dillon is hoping to use this opportunity to showcase his full potential as an NASCAR driver, and to secure his spot in the competitive NASCAR landscape.