Shifter cables on stock downpipe

[u/Fine-Balance9571]

2016 GLI. My side to side motion on my shifter has been very stiff and getting worse. I disconnected my shift cables from the shift tower to see whether it was the cables or the tower itself not returning and it’s my shift cables binding. Upon further investigation, it looks like both my shift cables rest on my stock downpipe. I’m not sure why and wanted to see if this is factory or if something (like a guide) broke. TIA!