Who says drivers will be more cautious when racing in the Chase for the Sprint Cup? Denny Hamlin and Jimmie Johnson engaged in a heavy battle for sixth short of halfway in Sunday's NASCAR Sprint Cup race at Martinsville Speedway.
When you're racing in #TheChase... every position counts. pic.twitter.com/JxNrtGVPdO
— NASCAR (@NASCAR) October 30, 2016
After the two had been battling for position, with Johnson ahead, Hamlin moved to the inside but could not complete the pass. The two were racing cleanly for several laps until Hamlin finally bumped Johnson, whose car went high and then made contact with Hamlin as he came back to the inside. Hamlin then made contact with Brad Keselowski as his car wobbled.
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Johnson's tire was smoking as he had front-end damage after the contact. A caution came out, allowing Johnson the chance to get his car repaired.
The pair were reportedly not pleased with the contact, though. (The verbiage gets a little blue; you have been warned.)
Denny Hamlin on Johnson: "I mean, he thinks I'm bluffing. He thinks I'm (freaking) bluffing — watch."
— Jeff Gluck (@jeff_gluck) October 30, 2016
He was reportedly announcing his displeasure on the radio.
#NASCAR ... Denny Hamlin on radio about Johnson: "Jimmie has been doing this ever since 2 years ago. He really drives like a dick
— Dustin Long (@dustinlong) October 30, 2016
Denny is PISSED! "Jimmie's been doing this since two years ago. He thinks he's a king, but he really drives like a (jerk)."
— Jeff Gluck (@jeff_gluck) October 30, 2016
Hamlin: I'm trying to be patient, but he let that happen for 40 laps.
— Jeff Gluck (@jeff_gluck) October 30, 2016
Spotter: "Even Brad behind us was bitching about it."
Hamlin was rallying back after being caught speeding on pit road earlier in the race. He and Johnson were among the favorites in Sunday's race, with Hamlin having five wins at the track and Johnson eight.
Johnson was 25th after pitting for repairs. By Lap 320 of 500, Johnson was 10th.