Denny Hamlin’s recent comments have sparked heated discussion in the NASCAR world after he compared Kurt Busch’s achievements to Tony Stewart’s legendary NASCAR career and legacy. The debate, which started following Hamlin’s interview, has captured fans’ attention, highlighting differences in opinion about each driver’s status in racing history.
Hamlin’s Comments Ignite Debate Over Busch and Stewart
When Denny Hamlin was interviewed shortly after Kurt Busch’s induction into the NASCAR Hall of Fame, his response drew direct comparisons between the two drivers. Busch, long recognized as a notable figure with significant victories, was the subject of Hamlin’s praise. In Hamlin’s words,
“It’s fantastic and certainly he’s won pretty much everything he’s got in. Reminded me a lot of kind of Tony Stewart, you know, his ability to pretty much drive anything.”
—Denny Hamlin, NASCAR Driver
Hamlin pointed out not only Busch’s wins, but also his adaptability on the track. His comments quickly spread through social media and fan forums, fueled by interview clips and widespread reactions. Peter Stratta, who conducted the interview, posted:
“.@dennyhamlin says @KurtBusch’s adaptability as a driver reminded him a lot of @TonyStewart, and the newly elected @NASCARHall member was key in starting the No. 45 team for @23XIRacing. #NASCAR pic.twitter.com/iXVEjKR7qd
— Peter Stratta (@peterstratta) May 24, 2025”
Fans Clash Over Comparison and Busch’s Hall of Fame Status
Hamlin’s remarks were met with a fierce response, with many fans taking to platforms such as Twitter, Reddit, and YouTube to express disagreement. One commenter responded directly to the shared interview by stating,
“Kurt Busch was a really good driver, but he’s not Tony Stewart. That’s Hamlin just being dumb, not a shock. Should probably be more focused on the current dumpster fire that’s 23Xi this year,”
—Fan on social media
Others echoed skepticism about the comparison and even criticized Hamlin’s own racing priorities:
“Why doesn’t Hamlin just give up on chasing the cup championship and just retire?”
—Fan on YouTube
This back-and-forth illustrates the divided opinions among NASCAR enthusiasts, with some dismissing Hamlin’s viewpoint and others defending Busch’s accomplishments. Despite the controversy, both Busch and Stewart remain respected figures, each with distinct talents and magnetic careers. Hamlin’s candid remarks might have angered some, but they also spurred appreciation for Busch’s role in launching the No. 45 team for 23XI Racing.
Tony Stewart’s Unmatched Achievements in Motorsport
Tony Stewart’s legendary NASCAR career and legacy are often cited as benchmarks in the racing community. He has achieved honors as both a driver and a team owner, winning four NASCAR championships across both roles. Stewart’s career is further distinguished by his success in series such as Indy, USAC, Midget racing, and Sprint racing, making him stand out as one of motorsport’s elite.
Stewart secured his first two championships from behind the wheel before moving on to claim two more as an owner, with the most recent title arriving in 2014. This transition from driver to owner highlighted his versatility and strategic prowess. Additionally, Stewart is celebrated for simultaneously winning an IndyCar title and a NASCAR Championship, solidifying his place in racing annals as a multi-faceted competitor.
As NASCAR and motorsport fans continue debating Hamlin’s comparison, the discussion underscores the passion surrounding both Kurt Busch’s recent Hall of Fame status and Tony Stewart’s celebrated legacy. While perspectives may differ, the conversation serves as a testament to the lasting impact both men have made on the sport, hinting at more spirited discussions as the racing season unfolds.
