NASCAR Legend Doesn’t Hold Back
NASCAR veteran Mark Martin isn’t holding back after what he calls one of the most reckless moves he’s seen in years. During Saturday’s Xfinity Series race at Indianapolis, Austin Hill ignited outrage after a last-lap crash that many believe could’ve ended in tragedy.
The Pennzoil 250 was supposed to be a celebration, Connor Zilisch delivered JR Motorsports its 100th win. but that moment was overshadowed by Hill’s late-race retaliation against Aric Almirola. NASCAR fans were stunned, and Martin made it clear: “That wasn’t good.”
What Happened Between Austin Hill and Aric Almirola
With fewer than 10 laps remaining, Hill and Almirola were battling hard inside the top 5. Almirola tapped Hill’s bumper, causing the #21 to momentarily lose control. What came next left fans speechless—Hill appeared to intentionally hook Almirola in the right rear, sending him headfirst into the inside wall.
Hill also spun out, but the damage was done. Right-rear hooks are among the most dangerous moves in NASCAR, reminding many of the fatal crash that killed Dale Earnhardt in 2001.
Hill received a five-lap penalty, but many in the garage, including Martin, say it’s not enough.
Read More: Dale Jr. Chokes Up After Larson Wrecks JRM Veteran at Indy
Martin and Others Demand Stronger Action
Speaking on the Door Bumper Clear podcast, Martin didn’t mince words. “He reacted with emotion,” he said. “A great driver controls that. He did it without thinking, and that could’ve killed someone.”
Martin’s words hit hard. “Think about how your life would be affected if that person died,” he added. Others on the show, including Tommy Baldwin and Freddie Kraft, agreed. Baldwin called the move “complete bulls” and demanded a suspension.
Almirola confirmed his hit was “definitely intentional,” calling it “one of the biggest hits of my career.” He even compared it to the crash that broke his back years ago. Meanwhile, team owner Richard Childress defended Hill, accusing NASCAR of inconsistent penalties and protecting big-name teams.
Hill claimed over the radio that the wreck wasn’t intentional, but the NASCAR community isn’t buying it. Given recent suspensions for similar wrecks involving Chase Elliott and Denny Hamlin, many believe Austin Hill should face the same consequences.
Should NASCAR suspend Austin Hill? Let us know what you think.
Read More: JGR Demands NASCAR Ban Austin Hill After Brutal Indy Crash
