You know, just because you think something is stupid, doesn't mean it is
Damage will in fact make the racing a lot more realistic. You answered it yourself: "Fans are whining complaining dip****s [who usually know jack **** about what they're talking about] and you'll be better off if you just ignore them". Do you think Kaz is bothering with damage because of whiners? Of course not lol. Damage is a fundamental part of racing, and as you said yourself: "...the guy [...] with 20 years of experience making racing games would know better than a bunch of internet users..." and that's why he's including it in the game. He's no newcomer to racing. He knows what should be in the game and what he shouldn't bother with.
It is of my understanding that many people are so eager to play the game (like you) that they don't care anymore if it's done the right way or not. I'm glad PD and Kaz are not listening to these "release date" whiners and are putting all the effort they can into releasing an epic game.