With a week that’s been nothing less than topsy turvy, the adventures of NASCAR have definitely been quite eventful. However, none of the exhilarating fun has taken place on the track. The action has all taken place internally. From reprimanding affairs that have pushed the envelop for a number of fines and suspensions, to structural adjustments to the Sprint Cup field, the logistics have taken precedence over everything else all week.
But nothing topped today’s announcement which surpassed all others this week. During an expedited news conference, NASCAR officially announced the 12-driver Chase line-up which now includes none other than four-time NASCAR champion, Jeff Gordon. as the 13th driver. Although Gordon slightly missed qualifying this year, the decision still ruled in his favor. According to NASCAR chairman Brian France, this particular decision to implement 13 drivers to the field is, indeed, a first since the arrangement was set up a decade ago. However, according to CBS Sports, France expressed esteemed confidence in his authority to make such an executive decision. “We believe this is the right outcome to protect the integrity, which is our no. 1 goal, of NASCAR,” said France.
The change gives Gordon the green light to join Kasey Kahne, Jimmie Johnson, and five-time NASCAR champion and veteran racer Dale Earnhardt Jr., all of whom are Hendrick Motorsports’ affiliates.
Gordon was very gracious for NASCAR’s decision, and didn’t mind displaying his gratitude with a very open statement of appreciate via Twitter.
Wow we just gained 1250 points! Very appreciative of @NASCAR consideration on this matter as well as fans overwhelming support.
— Jeff Gordon (@JeffGordonWeb) September 13, 2013
Rick Hendrick, Owner of Hendrick Motorsports, was also in full agreement with Gordon’s words of gratitude. Hendrick also issued a brief statement. “I applaud NASCAR for taking the time for a full review. We’re extremely proud to have all four cars in the Chase for the second consecutive season. Jeff and the No.24 team earned this spot,” he said.
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