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The 10 most surprising driver/crew chief breakups of NASCAR's Chase/playoff era


Published on 2024-12-13 05:45:25 - The New York Times
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  • Denny Hamlin's split with Chris Gabehart is far from the first surprising driver/crew chief change. Here's our top 10 of the last 20 years.

The article from The Athletic discusses the impact of driver-crew chief breakups in NASCAR during the Chase/Playoffs era, highlighting how these changes can significantly affect team performance. It examines several notable splits, such as the breakup between Kevin Harvick and Rodney Childers, and how these changes have influenced the teams' success in the playoffs. The piece delves into the reasons behind these splits, including performance issues, personal dynamics, and strategic decisions by team owners. It also explores the broader implications for NASCAR, where continuity and chemistry between a driver and crew chief are crucial for success, yet the sport's competitive nature often necessitates tough decisions to shake up underperforming teams. The article provides insights from various stakeholders in NASCAR, offering a comprehensive look at how these breakups are managed and their ripple effects on the sport's competitive landscape.

Read the Full The New York Times Article at:
[ https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5987158/2024/12/13/nascar-driver-crew-chief-breakups-chase-playoffs-era/ ]