Denny Hamlin is poised to potentially secure his elusive NASCAR championship in 2025, displaying a blend of speed, strategy, and resilience throughout the playoffs. This poised pursuit, however, unfolds amid a complicated backdrop, as Hamlin’s co-owned team, 23XI Racing, is embroiled in a lawsuit against NASCAR concerning alleged unfair practices within the charter system. The irony is not lost, as the very driver vying for racing’s highest accolade simultaneously questions the financial structures of the sport.
When asked by Fox News about the potential awkwardness of celebrating a title alongside NASCAR’s top leaders, given the current tensions surrounding the charter negotiations, Hamlin responded with professionalism. He remarked, “No, I don’t think so. I mean, I’ve seen those guys as much as I’ve ever seen them over the last few weeks. It’s just been I’ve had a different suit on and they’ve been in their normal suits.” This comment reflects his dual roles as both a driver for Joe Gibbs Racing and a co-owner of 23XI Racing, placing him at the intersection of two significant debates in NASCAR.
Hamlin has become a prominent voice for team owners, advocating for fairer revenue sharing and long-term charter security amidst ongoing discussions with NASCAR executives. Recent meetings with NASCAR President Steve Phelps, CEO Jim France, and COO Steve O’Donnell have been intense as Hamlin, alongside others, has pushed for greater transparency. While these discussions have been challenging, Hamlin’s respectful attitude remains unchanged, demonstrating his professionalism throughout two decades in the Cup Series.
His tenure in the sport has seen him evolve from a fiercely competitive driver known for his passionate takes to a respected figure balancing the interests of both competitors and team owners. In previous seasons, notably in 2023 and 2024, Hamlin openly critiqued issues surrounding the Next Gen car, only to later commend NASCAR officials upon their corrective actions following major accidents. This ability to communicate candidly while maintaining respect highlights his dual role in the sport.
As Hamlin focuses on the championship battle at hand, the distinction between his legal challenges and competition on the track remains evident. Despite a successful career boasting 54 Cup Series wins and three Daytona 500 victories, the ultimate championship title has eluded him thus far. However, his current mindset of compartmentalizing business challenges may serve as a unique strength during this critical juncture.
Concurrently, rookie Chase Briscoe enters his first Championship 4 with a sense of wonder and excitement. Emphasizing his humble beginnings, he expressed to Bob Pockrass that he still feels starstruck competing against legends like Hamlin and Kyle Busch. Briscoe’s journey from a fan to a competitor showcases his passion for the sport, and with performances that include a strong playoff showing, he aims to capture glory at Phoenix.
With the stage set for an exciting conclusion to the season, both Hamlin and Briscoe embody different aspects of NASCAR’s evolving narrative. Hamlin’s continued advocacy and Briscoe’s youthful enthusiasm highlight not only their individual ambitions but also the broader journey of the sport as it navigates current challenges in pursuit of the championship crown.