Natalie Decker’s recent NASCAR race has ignited debate among fans regarding minimum speed requirements and the owner points system. Decker received a black flag during Friday’s race at Watkins Glen for failing to meet NASCAR’s minimum speed. This led to her finishing 36th with a DNF (Did Not Finish).
Black Flag and Fan Reaction
A black flag indicates that a driver is too slow and must come in immediately. NASCAR does not issue it lightly, especially on road courses like Watkins Glen where slow vehicles pose a risk. Decker’s black flag was not entirely unexpected, given past incidents. Back at Daytona, she hit Sam Mayer’s truck well after a caution flag, later blaming Mayer on the radio. This incident drew negative attention.
Fans online expressed their frustration. One wrote that the owners’ points rule needs something like the 107% rule to keep it in check. Another questioned how she still has a NASCAR license, suggesting she has repeatedly proven she doesn’t belong. Some fans believe she continues to get seat time because she is a pay driver.
Owner Points System Under Scrutiny
Decker made the grid due to her team’s owner points. This system allows teams to earn points over time, guaranteeing a starting spot even with a slow qualifying lap. Critics point out the absence of a speed floor. Formula 1, in contrast, has a 107% rule, disqualifying drivers who qualify more than 7% slower than the fastest car. The lack of a similar rule in NASCAR allowed Decker to race, while two faster women, Dystany Spurlock and Toni Breidinger, were left out.
Decker’s Recent Performances
Decker’s August 2025 return marked her as the first woman to race post-birth. Her 2026 schedule includes some O’Reilly Series races for Joey Gase Motorsports and a two-race Truck deal with Team Reaume. Her average finish across those starts is 33.00.
One fan suggested Decker should be parked forever, saying she has had enough chances without proving herself. They added that she keeps getting into race-altering situations.