There are many aspects of motorsports that are undeniably objective. That is to say, they are not subject to opinion. Either you crossed the finish line first, or someone else did, simple as that. If your engine blows up, it’s because something went wrong, no opinions needed. But there are other parts of racing that are a little less black and white, and sometimes the ruling can leave a sour taste in the mouth of fans.
Recently, Richie Gustin was ejected from a race at the Benton County Speedway after the incident you’re about to watch. The question to ask yourself is, was this move intentional, or did Gustin hit a rut and inadvertently ram his competitor?
This race, from May 7th, is part of the IMCA Modified Hawkeye Dirt Tour, and Gustin has already seen some success on the track this season, including two checkered flags and two second-place finishes. Gustin was at the front of the pack, fighting for third place when his competitor passes on the outside.
What happens next is up for interpretation. The number 7 car clearly gets around Gustin, who suddenly leaps forward and rams the number 7 car, sending it into a tailspin and eventually crashing into several other racers. Meanwhile Gustin goes flying off the track, and was ultimately ejected from the race.
Several YouTube commentators say that it clearly looks like Gustin hit a rut, launching him into the number 7 car. But the refs ruled it a reckless lapse of the rules, and ejected him from the race. So what say you? Was this an intentional snipe, or just an unlucky pothole that ended one driver’s night early?
You be the judge! Leave us a comment below with your opinion.