Denny Hamlin calls out NASCAR leadership

Denny Hamlin called out NASCAR and cited “bad leadership” for creating a car that he believes needs to be redesigned after two drivers have suffered concussion-like symptoms in crashes this year. Hamlin continued to be outspoken about the safety of the car this year, and was joined on Saturday by driver Chase Elliott, who said how “disappointed” he is “that we put ourselves in the box that we’re in.” Hamlin said other drivers must join them in being heard. Hamlin: “I know a lot of young guys are just happy to be here, but they ain’t going to be happy when their brains are scrambled for the rest of their lives,” Asked how the sport got to this point with the car, Hamlin said: “Bad leadership.” Asked how to avoid the same thing from happening, Hamlin said: “New leadership.” As for the changes that need to be made in NASCAR leadership, Hamlin said: “I don’t know. You can start at the top and work your way down” (NBCSPORTS.com, 10/1).