NASCAR Should Thank Ross Chastain

On Sunday, we saw one of the craziest moments in recent NASCAR memory. Ross Chastain needed two spots to advance to the Round of 4. It was looking like all hope was lost. But going into turns three and four, Ross decided to send it. No, really. He held it wide open and passed Denny Hamlin to make it to Phoenix. It looked like a move straight out of a video game.

Now, there is plenty of debate about the safety of such a move. And obviously, we don’t want the whole field literally ripping the fence. But in my opinion, NASCAR should be grateful for this move. Allow me to explain myself.

First of all, let’s look at the amount of attention this brought to the sport. TikTok, YouTube, Twitter, Facebook, etc.. The video of this was shared thousands of times. It’s being talked about on sports shows that typically never cover NASCAR. Even Formula 1 drivers seemed interested in talking about the move, despite the fact they had held a Grand Prix the same day.

And the timing of this could not be any better. In a time when many fans were explaining their frustration with where the sport was heading, it was revitalized. Every week there seemed to be some controversy, not to say this move is not controversial. But suddenly, a fanbase that has historically been divided, was coming together to recognize just how amazing that finish was. And by the way, I look forward to seeing ratings and viewership numbers for Phoenix. This is a great opportunity.

But the other reason NASCAR should be thankful is a bit less obvious. See, several times this season, there was more of a story surrounding the penalties from NASCAR rather than the actual race itself. This became exhausting. And in a race where there was a disqualification that would’ve had a direct impact on the playoff field, this is massive. See, had Ross not done that move, Denny Hamlin would’ve made it into the field on points.

This alone isn’t a big deal. But, Brad Keselowski, the driver of the car that Chastain rear-ended coming to the finish, was ultimately disqualified. This meant NASCAR would’ve had to remove Hamlin from the Round of 4 and put Chastain in his place. This could’ve presented all the wrong kinds of controversy and attention.

It is my sincere belief that Ross Chastain quite possibly saved NASCAR from one of its biggest controversies yet. And for that, I am thankful. As a fan, that move was spectacular. I do think there needs to be some consideration in the interest of safety but worry about more judgment calls. But the Hail Melon will be a move talked about for years to come.