Austin Cindric’s Penalty Sparks Debate: Why NASCAR Didn’t Suspend Him for Right-Hook Incident

Austin Cindric, driver for Team Penske, received a $50,000 fine and a 50-point penalty but avoided a one-race suspension after right-hooking Ty Dillon at the Circuit of the Americas. This decision has drawn considerable scrutiny, especially considering past incidents where similar actions resulted in suspensions for drivers like Bubba Wallace and Chase Elliott.

The incident occurred on Lap 4 when Cindric retaliated against Dillon, making contact with the rear of Dillon’s car and sending it spinning. NASCAR classified this as intentionally wrecking another car. Previously, such right-rear hook maneuvers have led to automatic one-race suspensions.

However, NASCAR’s Mike Forde explained on Hauler Talk that the circumstances surrounding Cindric’s incident were deemed “significantly different.” Forde cited the lower speeds at the road course, the tight confines of the track, and the fact that the incident didn’t even cause a caution flag as key factors in the decision. He stated that NASCAR chose to “err on the side of letting him race” at Phoenix.

This decision has led to confusion and frustration among fans and insiders alike. NASCAR Insider Jeff Gluck expressed a desire for clearer, more consistent rulings. “I just want to know the rules,” Gluck wrote on X. “Like when we see an incident happen, we all know what the outcome will be—on and off track.” He acknowledged NASCAR’s stance that each incident is unique but argued it makes understanding the calls more difficult.

As a result of the 50-point deduction, Cindric has fallen to 34th in the Cup Series standings. He will return to racing action at Phoenix Raceway this weekend.