Kevin Harvick criticizes Tyler Reddick's 'classy' move at Naval Base Coronado

Kevin Harvick blasted Tyler Reddick’s decision to yield position to teammate Corey Heim at Naval Base Coronado last weekend, calling the move 'sickening' for NASCAR’s competitive spirit. The 23XI Racing duo battled for the lead before Reddick, who finished 25th after a late flat tire, allowed Heim to claim his maiden Cup Series victory.

What happened at Naval Base Coronado?

Reddick and Heim, teammates at 23XI Racing, dueled for the lead in Southern California. Late in the race, Reddick made contact with Heim, pushing him toward the wall. With three laps remaining, Reddick slowed to let Heim pass, citing his teammate’s clean racing earlier in the day.

Why did Kevin Harvick criticize the move?

Harvick, speaking on his Happy Hour podcast, condemned Reddick’s gesture as antithetical to racing’s competitive ethos. 'I hated it. Hated everything about it,' he said. 'I don’t know how you get to the point of saying, ‘Oh, I’ll slow down. I’m going to let him save it.’' Harvick questioned whether Denny Hamlin, 23XI’s co-owner, would have done the same.

What did Denny Hamlin say?

Hamlin praised Reddick’s character, noting the move reflected his integrity. 'I think it speaks a lot to Tyler’s character,' Hamlin said. 'He felt like Corey raced him clean, and when he tried to pass him back clean, he didn’t, so he wanted to hit the reset button.'

What’s next for Reddick and Heim?

Reddick’s decision sparked debate about teamwork versus competition in NASCAR. Meanwhile, the Cup Series shifts focus to Sonoma this weekend, where Reddick and Heim will aim to build on their recent performances.