MONTMAGNY, QC – Autodrome Montmagny hosted the final NASCAR Canada event of the season, on Sunday, where Kevin Lacroix delivered a commanding performance, securing his 6th win of the season. He also clinched the Vice-Champion title, capping off an almost flawless season.
The NAPA Racing team enjoyed a remarkable season, consistently finishing in the Top 2, with the exception of two unfortunate retirements and a 7th place finish at Ohsweken. These setbacks proved costly in the championship fight, leaving Lacroix just 10 points shy of the title.
This marked a historic first for the NASCAR Canada series at Autodrome Montmagny, a 3/8-mile oval set along the Saint Lawrence River. Lacroix clocked the 8th and 2nd fastest times during the practice sessions. In qualifying, he posted the 2nd best time, earning him a front-row start for les 250 tours XPN race, though he started on the outside.
From the moment the green flag dropped, Lacroix, in the #74 Quick Strut / NAPA Dodge, was on the offensive, challenging Alex Labbé while defending his position against Raphaël Lessard and Andrew Ranger. The drivers swapped places within the Top 4 throughout the early stages, but as the race progressed,
Lacroix fought his way back into 2nd place. After more than 80 laps, he finally seized the lead.
The race was interrupted by multiple cautions, which could have worked against Lacroix, but he skillfully maintained his position at the front. The closing laps were particularly thrilling, with Will Larue battling fiercely with Lacroix right up to the checkered flag.
In the end, Lacroix emerged victorious, claiming his 6th win of the season and the first-ever NASCAR Canada victory at this track.
“It was a fantastic race,” said Kevin Lacroix. “But it’s a bittersweet victory because I didn’t win the title. We were consistent all season, except for two pieces of bad luck that cost us the championship. We were the strongest team out there, and we’ll be back next year to take the title.”
