Chastain’s Mistakes Cost Trackhouse Racing Playoff Spot at Charlotte Roval
In a dramatic conclusion to the NASCAR Cup Series race at Charlotte Roval, Ross Chastain’s errors led to Trackhouse Racing’s elimination from the postseason. With a one-point lead over reigning champion Joey Logano, Chastain’s aggressive maneuver in the final chicane resulted in a collision with Denny Hamlin, ultimately sealing his fate as multiple competitors surged past.
“Our strategy was clear: get past the No. 11,” Chastain stated after the race. “I did what I had to do.” However, the plan backfired when Chastain not only compromised his own finish but also affected Hamlin and others.
The race’s critical moment unfolded during the final laps when Chastain briefly held a two-point deficit against Logano after passing him for 13th place. Logano’s strategic pit stop for fresh tires further challenged Chastain, who fell behind in the running order as the race progressed. In the final two laps, he lost ground to both Todd Gilliland and Hamlin, finishing four points shy of the playoff cut line.
A tie in points would have favored Logano, who ultimately finished 21st. Chastain crossed the line backward after the collision, noting, “They were innocent bystanders… I apologize to Denny and his team.”
Chastain’s day began poorly, as a misstep during the first stage ended with him being sent to the back of the field. He later faced a pit road speeding penalty late in the race, compounding his difficulties.
Reflecting on the race, Chastain took full responsibility, acknowledging a series of unforced errors: “I single-handedly took a car out of the Round of 8… We should have been competitive enough for a top-five finish.”
Chastain’s performance at Charlotte highlighted the fine margins and pressures drivers face during the playoffs, marking a significant missed opportunity for Trackhouse Racing as they prepare for the remaining races of the season.
