Austin Cindric recalls the intense physical pain endured during the 2020 Bristol race, proving his resilience and determination.
Austin Cindric, known for his recent success in the NASCAR playoffs, is preparing for another competitive season following his Talladegavictory in April and a strong finish at Richmond. However, despite these achievements, Cindric shared that one of the toughest moments in his racing career happened during the 2020 Bristol Xfinity race, highlighting the intense physical challenge he faced that day. His experience underscores the brutal realities behind competing at the highest level and the resilience required to continue pursuing victory.
Enduring Physical Agony at Bristol
During a candid interview on Jeff Gluck’s 12 Questions segment, Cindric identified the 2020 Bristol Xfinity race as the most miserable he had ever experienced behind the wheel. He said,
“It has to be the 2020 Bristol Xfinity race,”
describing how an early loss of power steering on worn equipment turned a routine 40-lap run into a punishing ordeal. Despite losing power steering just five laps into the run after taking the lead from Ross Chastain on a restart, Cindric managed to hold the lead until only six laps remained.
The physical toll was extreme, as he struggled with the steering wheel that felt as though it was bending in his hands, while his body endured overwhelming strain. He reflected,
“I was bending the steering wheel in my hands. Like physically, there was nothing I could do. I had gone through all this pain just to lose it with six laps to go.”
Cindric revealed that the pain extended beyond typical racing discomfort. For the first time, he experienced tears from sheer physical anguish and the frustration of losing so close to the finish.
Image of: Austin Cindric
“I’ve never been in tears because of physical pain and strain before, but just to lose like that, it sucked hard. The tough part about being miserable in a race car is you’re trapped in the car, alone. No one can help you.”
Emotional Battle and Mental Defeat
The aftermath of the race was just as challenging for Cindric, as feelings of helplessness and defeat weighed heavily on him. He admitted that the hardest moment came in the media center when race winner Chase Briscoe asked about his loss. Cindric responded with frustration,
“Sure, I got tight. Leave me alone.”
He candidly shared the depth of his pain, stating,
“I’ve never felt so helpless in all my life. I’ve never felt such pain in a race car. My body went numb for a while… I’ve never lost a race that way.”
This honest reflection reveals the intense mental pressure athletes endure when physical issues derail their efforts despite their skill and determination.
Lessons in Determination and Looking Ahead
Although the 2020 Bristolrace remains a source of pain, Cindric also recognizes the experience as a critical test of his willpower and desire for success. He realized during that time how deeply he craved achievement, motivating him to continue pushing forward in his career. With Team Penske’s consistent strong playoff performances in recent years, Cindric hopes that continued progress, including potential playoff victories or a championship run, will help overcome the lingering scars from that difficult race.
As he prepares for upcoming challenges at tracks like Daytona, the memory of the Bristol ordeal serves as a reminder of both the unforgiving nature of motorsport and the resilience needed to compete at the highest level.
