In NASCAR, drivers often point fingers after a tough loss and are quick to blame factors like equipment or rivals. Take Austin Dillon after the 2018 Daytona 500, where he admitted to intentionally bumping Aric Almirola but later blamed Almirola’s blocking for forcing his hand. That kind of post-race reflection keeps fans hooked on the drama. At Bristol’s high-banked concrete short track, where tire management can make or break a run due to rapid wear on the steep turns, similar frustrations boiled over.

Shane van Gisbergen entered the 2025 playoffs seeded sixth with 22 playoff points, buoyed by four road course victories that showcased his skill on twists and turns. But ovals like Bristol painted a contrasting picture, and his misfortunes peaked there with a 26th-place finish that sealed

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