Martin Truex Jr. Slams 'Ridiculous' Racing Tactics After Late-Race Drama at Watkins Glen

Martin Truex Jr. has voiced his frustration over what he describes as “ridiculous” racing tactics following a chaotic conclusion to the race at Watkins Glen International on Sunday. After finishing P20, his best result in over two months, Truex was less than complimentary of 2021 champion Kyle Larson, especially during the late-race restarts.

Truex, who has seen his performance decline since July despite a strong start to the 2024 season, now faces a big challenge: he must secure at least a top 5 finish in the final race of the round to ensure his spot in the Round of 12 for the NASCAR playoffs. There is an urgency for him to perform well, and a pressure on his shoulders.

Drama at Watkins Glen erupted during the closing laps of the race. For Truex, these final moments were marred by aggressive driving, particularly from Larson.

The No.5 Chevrolet driver’s tactics not only impeded Truex’s momentum but also resulted in multiple incidents where Truex found himself being driven through by other cars.

Martin Truex Jr., driver of the #19 Reser’s Fine Foods Toyota, drives during the NASCAR Cup Series Go Bowling at The Glen at Watkins Glen International on September 15, 2024 in Watkins Glen, New York….

Chris Graythen/Getty Images

In the aftermath, the New Jersey driver did not hold back his frustration.

“It’s just crazy that all these races always come down to this. I don’t really understand how guys can call themselves the best in the world when they just drive through everyone on restarts at the end of these races. It’s very frustrating but it is what it is these days, so I’m out of here,” Truex told NBC, via First Sportz.

His continued:

“You get green-white-checkered at the end of the race, and you know people are just going to drive through someone. We were on the wrong lane, on the short end of the stick as usual.

“We were in a decent spot there with our Reser’s Camry, and you go through the esses, and they just plow through you and put you in the marbles. This racing is just ridiculous,” he said.

As Truex looks ahead to the final race of the round, there is substantial pressure on his shoulders. Securing a top 5 finish is now imperative if he hopes to advance in the playoffs, making his performance in the upcoming race critical for his championship aspirations.