Denny Hamlin, co-owner of 23XI Racing, has made his expectations clear for development driver Corey Heim as Heim prepares to make his first NASCAR Cup Series start of the 2024 season at Kansas. Following Heim’s impressive third Truck Series win of the season at Texas, attention is shifting to how he will perform behind the wheel of the #67 Toyota Camry. Hamlin’s commentary, shared on his podcast, revealed anticipation and a measured outlook regarding Heim’s upcoming Cup appearances.
After Heim’s Texas victory, Hamlin discussed his approach, stating that seeing Heim compete at Kansas and in future scheduled races in 2025 would be “exciting.” Rather than setting rigid benchmarks or demanding a particular finishing position, Hamlin explained he is looking for clear “progression.” He referenced Trackhouse Racing’s performance at Texas, noting that while outward results can seem positive, deeper evaluation often reveals more work needed—a point Ross Chastain recently voiced.
Hamlin emphasized that a Cup Series driver must sometimes push beyond the car’s baseline performance, excel during restarts, and fight hard for every position. This philosophy, he explained, shapes what 23XI Racing expects from Heim as he gains valuable Cup-level experience. Hamlin said,
“You have to carry your car sometimes, get good restarts, and fight for positions you wouldn’t normally fight for.”
Further highlighting 23XI Racing’s support for Heim, Hamlin pointed out that the young driver will be equipped with the same car model as Bubba Wallace or Tyler Reddick and will work with a pit crew composed of “young development guys” striving to earn a full-time roster spot. Hamlin noted that Heim would have
“the fourth best pit crew in all of 23XI,”
reflecting a commitment to both Heim’s and the team’s growth.
Corey Heim has already shown potential, with Hamlin recalling that Heim ran in 11th or 12th before dropping to 29th at Nashville due to overtime incidents. Ultimately, Hamlin stated that if Heim is fast enough to compete within the top 15 at Kansas,
“it’d be a really good day.”
The outcome of Heim’s Cup debut is poised to influence both his career trajectory and the ongoing development approach at 23XI Racing, setting a precedent for how young talent is nurtured in the series.
