The missed caution and its fallout
Denny Hamlin, a veteran NASCAR driver turned analyst, uses his popular podcast to dissect race broadcasts, and his latest episode focused on the action at Watkins Glen International.
During the final stages of the event, Cody Ware’s car spun out with nine laps remaining, clipping the fencing and bringing his race to an abrupt end, a moment that many viewers felt deserved a caution flag.
Hamlin argued that NASCAR should have deployed a caution at that point, citing the potential danger to drivers and the need to preserve the integrity of the competition.
His criticism extends to the series’ recent shift toward fewer on‑site officials, a change that has increased reliance on camera angles to make officiating decisions.
The driver‑turned‑commentator pointed out that while the sport has invested in advanced monitoring technology, the actual staffing levels are insufficient to watch every feed in real time.
Consequently, Hamlin contends that multiple officials are required to effectively oversee the myriad camera perspectives and prevent missed incidents.
He also placed part of the blame on FOX, the network that holds broadcast rights, asserting that the partnership has not done enough to hold NASCAR accountable for these oversights.