NASCAR made a dramatic return following the Olympics, with Austin Dillon pulling off a surprising victory at Richmond Raceway. He managed to outpace Tyler Reddick and Bubba Wallace on the short track. However, Dillon’s win sparked controversy, drawing reactions from many in the NASCAR community, including Jimmie Johnson.
The seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion drew an intriguing comparison, suggesting Dillon’s tactics resembled those of the late Dale Earnhardt. Johnson noted that Dillon’s aggressive style echoed Earnhardt’s infamous “Intimidator” persona, known for winning at any cost and sometimes using rough tactics against opponents.
Yet, many argue that comparing Dillon to Earnhardt is excessive. Dillon, while a skilled driver with five career wins, is seen by some as far from reaching the legendary status of Earnhardt. Fans, too, were vocal in their criticism of Johnson’s comparison, and questions about the reason for the controversy surrounding Dillon’s win linger.
The controversy centered on Dillon’s actions during the race. After a restart in overtime, Dillon was in contention with Joey Logano and Denny Hamlin for the lead. As the final lap unfolded, Dillon made a decisive move, but not in the traditional manner. Instead of passing Logano cleanly, Dillon tapped the rear of Logano’s car, causing a spin. This action, accompanied by the infamous “WRECK HIM! WRECK HIM!!” from Dillon’s spotter, set the stage for Dillon to clinch the win. Dillon then made contact with Hamlin, sending him into the wall and securing his victory.
Both Logano and Hamlin, usually rivals, found common ground in their disapproval of Dillon’s maneuver, and many others shared this sentiment, including Jimmie Johnson.
Johnson’s comment about Dillon’s actions giving him “Dale Sr vibes” was interpreted by some as a veiled criticism rather than a compliment. Fans were quick to react, questioning the comparison and defending Earnhardt’s reputation. They argued that Earnhardt never resorted to the kind of aggressive tactics Dillon employed. NASCAR history shows Earnhardt’s own contentious moments, like his infamous clash with Michael Waltrip at Richmond in 1986, but fans felt Dillon’s actions were too extreme.
In response, some fans criticized Johnson’s comment and even took jabs at him, suggesting it was his biggest misstep since retiring from full-time racing. Others reiterated that Earnhardt, known for his ruthless competitiveness, would not have used such tactics. Johnson’s comparison to Earnhardt did not sit well with many, including his own supporters, who expressed their disagreement.
