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11h ago

Dale Earnhardt Jr. Clinches Pocono Win as Interim Crew Chief, Prompts NASCAR Debate

Filling in during Mardy Lindley’s suspension, Jr. managed race strategy that divided peers over the necessity of his on-site leadership.

Kyle Busch, driver of the #8 zone/GetGo Chevrolet, looks on during practice for the NASCAR Cup Series The Great American Getaway 400 at Pocono Raceway on June 21, 2025 in Long Pond, Pennsylvania.

Overview

  • Dale Earnhardt Jr. stepped in as interim crew chief for Connor Zilisch and led JR Motorsports to victory in the NASCAR Xfinity Series race at Pocono Raceway.
  • Kyle Busch criticized Jr.’s presence on the pit box as a publicity stunt and later clarified he was questioning NASCAR’s crew chief suspension policy rather than Jr. personally.
  • Denny Hamlin defended Jr.’s contributions, noting his involvement in key strategy calls and responsibility for race-day decisions.
  • Earnhardt Jr. acknowledged he didn’t control every technical adjustment but said he felt significant pressure and would happily fill the crew chief role again if needed.
  • The Pocono triumph marked Jr. as the ninth person in NASCAR history to win as a driver, team owner and crew chief.