Nothing could stop Justin Allgaier and JR Motorsports from claiming a NASCAR Xfinity Series title at Phoenix Raceway. From a crash in practice forcing a backup car for the Championship, to a restart violation, and a double overtime finish, Allgaier was relentless in claiming his first Xfinity Series title in his 14-year career in the series.
“I said all weekend, I don’t know what the plan is, but HE has a reason for everything and tonight is true of that, this is mind-blowing, it really is,” said Allgaier, his voice already hoarse and strained from screaming in happiness, but the smile unshakable as his young daughters came in for a hug for dad. “This team never gave up. [Crew chief] Jim Pohlman and his leadership skills are second to none. He told me all weekend that we were going to have a chance and we tried to give it away every way we could.”
Also, in Stewart-Haas Racing’s final Xfinity Series event Riley Herbst was absolutely dominant and claimed the race win although he was not racing for the title. Herbst led most of the race and passed Allgaier on the final lap to claim the race win.
“I knew we were going to have a fast race car, these guys have been working on this race car and I knew we were going to be really really fast,” said Herbst. “It’s been a really tough week at the shop, really emotional time. I’m forever grateful to every man and woman at Stewart-Haas Racing they gave me a really fast car today and I can’t thank everyone enough.”
NASCAR Championship Weekend concludes on Sunday with the NASCAR Cup Series Championship race at 1:00 p.m. MST on NBC.
Devon Henry
