“He’s a Clown”- Joe Gibbs’ Protege Under Fire as Furious Fans Label Latest Victory ‘Undeserved’

Joe Gibbs Racing driver Max Reaves won the Desert Diamond Casino West Valley 100 at Phoenix Raceway amid fan backlash over the finish. Reaves claimed his first ARCA Menards Series West victory in the No. 18 Toyota, giving Joe Gibbs Racing a winning sendoff in its final ARCA-platform race. The race concluded under caution following overtime incidents and rain, securing the controversial win over runner-up Taylor Reimer.

The controversy escalated after Reaves made contact with slower driver Andrew Chapman with three laps remaining, triggering a caution. Reimer had contested the lead throughout the race and finished second. Numerous fans expressed anger on social media, accusing Reaves of aggressive driving and benefiting from superior equipment, though race officials issued no penalties.