Regardless of who was leading when the #5 car swapped ends, it was essential to switch on the yellow lights. Drivers would see the lights or hear it immediately from their spotters. They would have eased off the throttles and possibly reduced the damage and risks of racing to the line. This was an instance where NASCAR elected to put the show ahead of the safety of the competitors. As it was, they waited about 15 seconds and the number of wrecks, and potential risk of serious injury was enhanced (as in Bowyer sliding across the finish line upside-down and extremely vulnerable).
This was very poor judgement on the part of NASCAR.
For crying out loud, they threw a yellow last year for a piece of rollbar foam! Here we have the potential for serious injury (cars spinning and colliding everywhere) and they sit on the yellow until the crashing is generally over. This makes the whole effort at improving safety seem like a farce.
If NASCAR has a shred of credibilty, they will review the videotapes and freeze the field when the 5 lost it. Then, whoever was in the lead, wins...
Of course, we all know that they won't make any effort if it casts the slightest doubt on the race official's judgement.
NASCAR shot themselves in the foot today and many teams will be less than thrilled with their decision.
Oh, and by the way... I just reviewed the last lap again via ESPN. Had they thrown the yellow exactly when the 5 lost the back end, Harvick wins. If they wait just one second, until there's actual contact, Martin wins.. Either way, NASCAR blew it letting them race to the line.
My regards,
Widewing
