Homestead, Florida, Nov 17: Bobby Labonte hit the front in the final half-a-lap to steal a surprise victory in the Miami 400 at the Homestead Speedway on Sunday after long-time race leader Bill Elliott suffered a tire problem in turn two.
''It was a complete surprise,'' said Labonte after his second win of the season and the 21st of his career.
With two laps to go his team was urging him on with crew chief Mike Mcswaim telling him by radio: ''Don't give up, don't give.'' Labonte replied: ''He (Elliott) is just playing with me.''
Labonte, who was in cruise mode looking for a steady second place, saw Elliot's Dodge ''wiggle'' coming off turn two just before the backstraight. ''I couldn't believe it,'' added Labonte, ''things just went our way today''.


Bureau Report