Denny Hamlin: Throughout NASCAR’s history, drivers like Kevin Harvick and Tony Stewart were known for their frankness in addressing the sport’s challenges. Harvick, in particular, was often seen as the outspoken voice of the drivers’ community. However, with Harvick retiring and stepping away from the track, the question arises: who will fill his shoes? Many eyes are turning to Denny Hamlin as a potential successor. This notion isn’t just an arbitrary assumption but is gaining traction among NASCAR insiders.
Recently, Jim Utter, in conversation with Doug Rice, suggested that Hamlin, recognized for his forthright approach, might gradually assume the role of a vocal advocate for drivers within the NASCAR sphere.
Harvick’s boldness in speaking his mind, even when it led to controversies, set him apart. Recall his criticism of the next-gen car’s safety last year, which led to NASCAR’s scrutiny of alleged modifications to his Ford at Talladega Superspeedway. Jim Utter sees a potential void-filling role for Denny Hamlin.
Utter remarked, “I believe Denny has somewhat, not in a negative way, positioned himself in that role. But, beyond Kevin, I’m uncertain if anyone else recently has stepped up to fill that kind of role. It’s been somewhat of a vacuum, to be frank. Apart from sporadic voices raising concerns, I genuinely believe the sport could benefit from a more unified driver representation.”
With his podcast and candid interviews before and after races, Hamlin is known for his unfiltered commentary. His proclamation, “I beat your favorite driver,” after a race win was just a glimpse of his assertiveness.
Hamlin himself pointed out recently that most NASCAR drivers lack the courage to be as outspoken as he is. It’s evident that if there’s someone prepared to fill the void left by Harvick, Denny Hamlin stands out as a prominent candidate.
In a forthright episode of his podcast released in October, Hamlin didn’t hold back in addressing his fellow drivers. He emphasized that it was time for them to voice their concerns.
Responding to a question about the ease of being outspoken, especially in comparison to drivers at Hendrick Motorsports, Hamlin was direct. “It bothers me that no one else has the courage to be,” he stated. Hamlin highlighted external pressures that restrain drivers from expressing themselves freely. He criticized the effects of such constraints on the sport’s growth and star power.
One hopes that Hamlin’s call to action resonates with fellow NASCAR drivers, encouraging them to voice their opinions on crucial matters concerning cars, tracks, management, or sponsors. It’s high time for more voices to come forward, fostering substantial changes in the racing realm.
ALSO READ: Denny Hamlin Legacy: Triumphs, Titles, and the Unfinished Pursuit
Our Reader’s Queries
Who is Denny Hamlin driving for in 2024?
Denny Hamlin has secured his partnership with FedEx for the long haul, with a one-year extension inked for 2024. The transportation and ecommerce business will continue to back the talented driver, while Hamlin himself has confirmed a multi-year deal to keep driving for Joe Gibbs Racing. This is great news for fans of both Hamlin and FedEx, who can look forward to seeing their favorite driver in action for years to come.
Who is Denny Hamlin racing for next year?
Joe Gibbs Racing has confirmed that Denny Hamlin will continue to drive the No. 11 Toyota Camry TRD in the NASCAR Cup Series. The announcement was made on Monday, revealing that Hamlin has signed a multiyear extension with the organization. Fans of the sport will be pleased to hear that one of the top drivers in the game will remain with his team for the foreseeable future.
Who will be the best NASCAR driver in 2023?
The NASCAR 2023 awards have been announced, and the winners are in! Kyle Larson has been crowned Driver of the Year, while Ryan Blaney takes home the Closer of the Year award. Brad Keselowski is the proud recipient of the Owner of the Year award. William Byron has been named the Biggest Surprise, and Denny Hamlin is the Personality of the Year. Ty Gibbs has been recognized as Rookie of the Year, and Kevin Harvick takes home the Retirement Tour of the Year award. Congratulations to all the winners!
Does FedEx still sponsor Denny Hamlin?
Joe Gibbs Racing will welcome back Denny Hamlin for the 2024 NASCAR season. However, FedEx has yet to confirm an extension of their partnership with Hamlin and the team. Despite a decrease in their involvement in NASCAR over the past few years, it is anticipated that the company will continue to support Hamlin and Joe Gibbs Racing.
