NASCAR once again finds itself in the firing line as fans raise questions over another contentious caution call. Known for walking a tightrope with split-second decisions, the sanctioning body stirred up fresh controversy at Chicago after electing to delay the yellow flag in the race\u2019s final moments.<\/p>\n
On the last lap, Cody Ware\u2019s Ford slammed into the Turn 6 tire barrier, prompting widespread expectation that NASCAR would immediately throw a caution, especially considering a similar wreck triggered by Carson Hocevar\u2019s bump on Lap 4 that led to a multi-car pileup.<\/p>\n
But this time, officials held their fire. The yellow didn\u2019t fly until 45 seconds later, after race leader Shane van Gisbergen had already taken the checkered flag, sealing the win under caution.<\/p>\n
The delay drew instant backlash. Fans took to social media in droves, venting their frustration and accusing NASCAR of playing favorites or turning a blind eye to consistency.<\/p>\n
One irate fan remarked, \u201cA car that crashes hard and can\u2019t drive away should be an immediate caution. Can\u2019t have these inconsistent calls where the officials either wait to call it or immediately throw it, just begins to look like they don\u2019t even care.\u201d<\/p>\n
Another vented directly at NASCAR, saying, \u201c@NASCAR, what the hell man, HOLY S\u2014T \u2013 this is just negligent and dangerous @mforde.\u201d A third fan didn\u2019t mince words, saying, \u201cThey wanted to pick their winner.\u201d<\/p>\n
Yet another fan demanded transparency, posting, \u201cEveryone needs to repost this. Make @NASCAR have to explain themselves. Maybe the accountability will create some changes.\u201d<\/p>\n
According to veteran reporter Bob Pockrass of Fox Sports, NASCAR officials stated<\/a> they weren\u2019t initially aware of the severity of Ware\u2019s hit and were waiting to see if he could drive away. They also clarified that potential rain or lightning played no role in the decision.<\/p>\n