DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. — Although Austin Cindric mentioned the “packed house” present to witness his Daytona 500 win, he said that he never really let himself focus on the fun and fanfare of the week.
“It’s just not who I am,” Cindric said. “I’m way too competitive. I know how much is at stake and how much work I’ve put in to really pay attention to it. Like I said, I’m not externally motivated or intimidated.”
Cindric’s climb through the NASCAR ranks has been characterized by his intense discipline. As the son of Team Penske president Tim Cindric, Austin’s ascension to the powerhouse Cup organization after four full-time Xfinity seasons was unsurprising, but it was never given. It was his composure behind the wheel and ability to get the job done that led team owner Roger Penske to put the rookie in the No. 2 Ford vacated by Brad Keselowski.
