NASCAR drivers get ready to tackle Michigan following a historic decision from the sport

(WJHL) — NASCAR is rolling into Michigan International Speedway this weekend and the race comes on the heels of a historic decision from the sport.
there is little doubt that the topic of conversation both through the garage and through the stands here at m-i-s will revolve around the news that broke yesterday.

NASCAR handed down one of its toughest penalties in years after Austin Dillon’s controversial win on Sunday in Richmond. In crushing both Joey Logano and Denny Hamlin to take the checkered flag, the sanctioning body determined a strong message had to be sent to race teams. NASCAR’s senior vice president of competition Elton Sawyer said their decision leaves little doubt for drivers and teams ahead of the race at Michigan.

“If you walk through that garage this weekend, and you look at those guys, they are going they know where the line is. I promise you, as a race car driver, they know where the line is. They’ve done this a long time … Hard NASCAR racing, little bump, little tire mark, moving the guy up out of the out of the groove to win a race – we’ve done that for years. What happened on Sunday night crossed the line, says Sawyer.”

Meanwhile, back in Michigan, the track will be hosting its 107th cup series race this weekend as the sport moves closer to the playoffs. rain showers are a possibility for at least part of the weekend, but it’s clear that whenever the cars hit the track, the drivers’ actions will be watched closely by NASCAR.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJHL | Tri-Cities News & Weather.