Denny Hamlin demands an answer from FOX after a frustrating oversight that has NASCAR fans buzzing. The outspoken Joe Gibbs Racing driver is not happy about how his image was handled. Known for his sharp wit, Denny Hamlin expressed his displeasure with FOX Sports for continuing to use an outdated photo, ignoring his big transformation. What’s got him so riled up?
Key Highlights
- Denny Hamlin criticizes FOX Sports for consistently using an outdated photo of him.
- Hamlin’s frustration stems from FOX’s disregard for his recent hair transformation.
- He humorously questions if he’s caught in a “time warp” on social media.
- Hamlin shares his thoughts on the situation on his podcast, “Actions Detrimental”.
- The outdated image is viewed as a lack of attention to detail by FOX Sports.
Denny Hamlin’s Latest Controversy
Denny Hamlin, never one to shy away from a public spat, has found himself embroiled in yet another controversy, this time with FOX Sports over what he considers a considerable oversight.
The outspoken Joe Gibbs Racing driver expressed his discontent when the network used an outdated photo for his official NASCAR image, seemingly ignoring his recent and much-discussed hair transformation.
Hamlin, known for his sharp wit and keen sense of self-awareness, took to social media to vent his frustrations in a manner equal parts sarcastic and humorous.
The veteran driver, whose track record speaks volumes, felt slighted by what he sees as a glaring lack of attention to detail by FOX Sports.
For a man who has built his career on precision and performance, such an oversight was deemed nothing short of a betrayal.
Denny Hamlin Takes Issue with FOX Sports
Raising an eyebrow at the latest blunder by FOX Sports, Denny Hamlin’s frustration reached new heights over something as trivial yet personal as a photograph.
Following a tumultuous end to his 2024 season, Hamlin entered 2025 rejuvenated, determined to shed not only his prior disappointments but also his buzz cut. His efforts at Bowman Gray Stadium, while not victorious, were overshadowed by a rather unexpected grievance—FOX Sports’ reluctance to update his image.
On his podcast, “Actions Detrimental,” Hamlin humorously lamented his plight. The No. 11 Toyota driver bemoaned FOX’s insistence on using an outdated photo, despite his valiant attempts at growing out his hair.
“Give me my hair back, FOX,” he jested, underlining the trivial yet irksome oversight. His misadventure with a clipper, a personal anecdote, had left him with a buzz cut for all of 2024, a look he was keen to abandon in favor of new beginnings.
“I thought everything was good except for I have one major, major beef with FOX. I was so excited because I was finally going to lose the buzz cut because whatever you look like on January 15th is what you look like for the entire year, right? And so, when I had that little clipper mishap last year, I had to live with a buzz cut the entire year. They haven’t changed it. Give me my hair back, FOX. I’ve got new photos.” – Denny Hamlin
FOX Faces Backlash Over Broadcast Issues
FOX Sports has found itself in hot water once again, this time for failing to capture the essence of live NASCAR events.
During The Clash at Bowman Gray Stadium, fans witnessed a spectacle of roaring engines and enthusiastic cheers. Yet, those at home were left wondering if the excitement had taken a pit stop. The broadcast’s audio mix fell short, rendering a potentially electrifying experience into a rather dull affair.
Viewers were quick to criticize the network’s handling of what should’ve been an adrenaline-fueled event.
- Flat audio: Viewers reported a lack of crowd noise, making the broadcast seem lifeless.
- Missed atmosphere: The electric energy of the live crowd didn’t translate to TV screens.
- Quality decline: Fans lamented the perceived drop in broadcasting standards.
- Viewer disappointment: Social media buzzed with complaints about the uninspiring telecast.
Denny Hamlin’s Strong Performance at Bowman Gray
In a display that left no doubt about his driving skill, Denny Hamlin managed to shine brightly at Bowman Gray, despite being slightly miffed at FOX’s broadcasting blunders. The seasoned driver exhibited his skill, consistently remaining a formidable contender throughout the race.
At one point, Hamlin even took the lead, a proof of his tactical finesse on the short track. Although he eventually finished in the third position, his wheel-to-wheel skirmish with Chase Elliott, who dominated the race by leading 171 of 200 laps, was a highlight.
Hamlin’s race was further challenged when Ryan Blaney, starting from the very back, executed an impressive charge to finish in the second position, overtaking Hamlin in the final laps.
Yet, this did not overshadow Hamlin’s strong performance, particularly as he appeared to gel seamlessly with his new crew chief, Chris Gayle. As the new season looms, Hamlin’s momentum is palpable, with expectations riding high.
Denny Hamlin Blasts NASCAR’s Open Exemption Policy
Denny Hamlin’s race performance at Bowman Gray was stellar, but his post-race comments proved just as engaging, if not more so.
Hamlin took aim at NASCAR’s new Open Exemption Policy (OEP), dismissing it as an ill-conceived attempt to grab headlines. He argued that this policy compromises the competitive integrity of the sport by allowing global stars automatic entry into NASCAR Cup Series races.
“I just think it reeks of desperation. I don’t know how nice you can really say it. It just feels like NASCAR is trying to get any kind of headline to stay relevant, and I don’t love it. To me, it is a short-term gain, long-term loss. We’re supposed to be the premier stock car series in the U.S. If you want to compete here, you should earn it the natural way. Not just because you have a big name.” – Denny Hamlin
- Hamlin’s Critique: Described the policy as “desperation” and a “short-term gain, long-term loss.”
- Policy Details: Guarantees entry to world-class drivers if more than 40 entries exist.
- Community Divide: Sparks debate between increasing visibility and protecting competitive rigor.
- Upcoming Test: Helio Castroneves to use the rule at the Daytona 500.
Hamlin’s passionate stance highlights a brewing controversy within the racing community, as many wonder whether the prestige of NASCAR is being sacrificed for fleeting fame.
News in Brief: Denny Hamlin Demands an Answer from FOX
In the latest chapter of Denny Hamlin’s eclectic saga, he slammed FOX Sports for their outdated photo choices, lamenting their oblivion to his hair transformation. FOX, already under fire for broadcast blunders, now faces the wrath of a driver with a flair for dramatics and a penchant for calling out NASCAR’s policies.
While Hamlin dazzled at Bowman Gray, he seems similarly committed to ensuring his hair gets the airtime it deserves. Who knew hair could spark such controversy?
ALSO READ: How Denny Hamlin Earned His First Paycheck Before Becoming a NASCAR Superstar