Gallery: Camaro Triumphs Amidst Controversy at Richmond
For the 11th time in 2024, a Team Chevy Camaro claimed victory in the NASCAR Cup Series, but this win at Richmond Raceway did not come without its share of drama and repercussions. The iconic #3 Camaro, driven by Austin Dillon, returned to victory lane in a race that will be remembered for its controversy.
Entering Richmond, Dillon found himself on the heels of a career-worst season, sitting 32nd in points with only three Top 10 finishes and zero laps led. Many had dismissed Dillon as a non-contender, but in a flash of brilliance that came from seemingly nowhere, Dillon and the #3 Camaro defied expectations. An impressive display of speed during practice and a solid 6th place in qualifying brought renewed attention to the legendary #3.
With a comfortable lead of nearly four seconds over Hamlin and victory well within reach, disaster struck. The Camaro of Ricky Stenhouse Jr. lost control in Turn 1, bringing out the third caution of the race and setting the stage for a high-stakes, two-lap overtime showdown.
Dillon retained the lead during pit stops, but a poor restart allowed Logano’s Mustang to take the top spot. Dillon, knowing a win would secure his spot in NASCAR’s Post Season Playoffs and significantly boost his points standing, made an aggressive dive into Turn, colliding with Logano’s #22, and sending his Mustang spinning up the track. In the chaos, Hamlin’s #11 attempted to capitalize, only for Dillon to make a decisive turn, taking out the #11 and crossing the finish line first in one of the most controversial finishes in recent history.
On Wednesday afternoon, NASCAR officials confirmed that Dillon’s win would stand, but it would not count toward a Playoff berth.
Though the events of the Cook Out 400's final lap may not have been what anyone hoped for, we're still thrilled to see that the Camaro is still making headlines and leading the pack during this Last Generation Camaro era. Be sure to tune into the USA Network this Sunday, August 18th at 2:30pm ET as the Team Chevrolet Camaros look to build upon their momentum heading into the 2024 Playoffs.
Stay tuned to CamaroStoreOnline.com as we continue to document the highlights of a historic 2024 for Camaro.
