Denny Hamlin is making preparations for another run in the NASCAR Cup Series Championship 4, but he is not merely seeking another championship; he is giving it his entire heart.
Having achieved his 60th career win, he took a retrospective look at the ways he reached his current position, the sacrifices his family made, his reliance on those around him, and the driving force that keeps him in the lead. It is not only about Phoenix but also about legacy and love, as well as about the things he has learned on the way.
Racing for More Than a Trophy
For Denny Hamlin, this year’s run feels deeply personal. While many see Phoenix as just another chance at redemption, Hamlin admits there’s more on the line emotionally. “I mean, I don’t know why this would be different,” he said candidly. “I can’t sit here and give you false promises… I’m just going to try as hard as I can. Maybe I can get lucky.”
And that silent frailty clashes with the raw strength with which fans have been following the years. Driving becomes a burden to Hamlin since he has the failing health of his dad and everything that has led him this far. “He’s the one who got me into racing,” Hamlin shared. “Sold everything they had. We almost lost our house a couple of times. I’m glad he was able to see 60.”
Denny Hamlin on Growth, Trust, and Teamwork
Hamlin’s 60th win wasn’t just another number; it was a personal victory grounded in reflection and gratitude. “All of it,” he said. “The family, the significance, being back on top for most wins in the season, punching the ticket to the 4. I can’t imagine there’s a win bigger for me than this one.”
He credited his improvement to continuous self-assessment. “Every off-season, I try to put focus on getting better in one or two areas,” Hamlin explained. “Whatever’s holding me back from winning more races, I try to improve that.”
A key part of that growth has been his partnership with crew chief Chris Gayle. “I was worried,” Hamlin admitted. “Chris Gayle’s résumé was not mind-blowing by any stretch… But I trusted Joe [Gibbs]. I can confidently say that Gibbs made the right decision. Sometimes a fresh, new perspective can teach you something.”
Faith, Loyalty, and Legacy
Denny Hamlin’s faith and loyalty remain at the core of his journey. “No one driver is bigger than the team they drive for,” he said. “I had to learn that. I realized I’d be more successful if I just focused on doing the best I can at my part.”
After the emotional 60th win, Hamlin couldn’t hold back tears. “I knew there was no chance I was holding it back,” he said. “It’s just so gratifying… I had the ball at the very end and made it.”
He smiled when talking about the two father figures who shaped him. “I’ve got two dads,” Hamlin said. “One’s at home and one’s here. Everything I got, I owe to the Gibbs family.”
Now, as Phoenix looms, Hamlin’s mindset is calm yet determined. “Maybe this is my last chance,” he said. “Maybe it isn’t. I just know I’m going to do the work, and I hope it works out.”
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