A collision between teammates Chase Elliott and Kyle Larson during a playoff race at Kansas could have spelled disaster for Hendrick Motorsports. However, the incident paved the way for Tyler Reddick of 23XI Racing, who seized the opportunity and emerged victorious.
Tyler Reddick via Skewcar YouTube, screenshot
In a post-race press conference, Reddick, who triumphed following the skirmish, acknowledged noticing a disruption during the final pit stop but said he was zeroed in on his race.
Race spectators and analysts were provided a closer view of the incident. When asked about the clash between the Hendrick teammates, Reddick said, “The replay and what you guys see is probably better than what I saw, but certainly, I could tell something was going on there, and I think it definitely allowed me to kind of sneak in between them and come off pit road where I did.”
They're teammates. 😬
Chase Elliott wasn't happy with Kyle Larson. #NASCARPlayoffs pic.twitter.com/71G4fYHT72
— NASCAR on NBC (@NASCARonNBC) September 10, 2023
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While Elliott and Larson’s contact was unforeseen, it absolutely benefited Reddick. He believed that if not for their tangle, his position in the race might have been compromised.
“Just crazy how little the margins are on pit road on the racetrack,” Reddick said, pointing out the minute differences that can affect race outcomes. “How much it can come down to the difference between having a shot to win and looking at finishing fifth.”
Chase Elliott finished sixth on a solid day. What he said afterward and whether he was sending a message to Kyle Larson after the contact as they were exiting their pits. pic.twitter.com/zodqNJrwIF
— Bob Pockrass (@bobpockrass) September 11, 2023
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With fresher tires post the pit-stop clash, Reddick showed his skill on the track. He strategically took the inside lane, went three wide, and overtook the frontrunners to capture the lead. That lead would convert into a win, solidifying his place among the top playoff contenders this season.
This series of events, which combined elements of luck and his skills behind the wheel, played perfectly into Reddick’s hands. Meanwhile, his team’s co-owner finished in a commendable second place after an impressive run.
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