Denny Hamlin celebrates NASCAR win with Ohio State gesture after securing his third race victory this season and the 57th of his career at Michigan International Speedway in Brooklyn, Michigan, generating buzz among fans of both the Buckeyes and their rivals. Hamlin’s post-race salute drew strong reactions as he chose to honor his passion for Ohio State in the heart of Michigan, a location defined by its fierce college football rivalry with Ohio State University.
Hamlin’s Victory and O-H Salute at Michigan
Denny Hamlin, well-known in the NASCAR world and driving the No. 11 Yahoo Toyota Camry, stepped out of his car at Michigan International Speedway and enthusiastically made the O-H gesture toward the stands, signaling his support for the Ohio State Buckeyes. He repeated the gesture twice for emphasis, standing proudly as the cameras captured the moment in a state where college football loyalties are sharply divided.
The reaction from college football fans online was swift. For Ohio State supporters, Hamlin’s celebration felt personal. —“My new favorite driver,” one fan declared. The community rallied in approval, while comments like “stud,” “Go Bucks!” and “hell yeah brother” flooded social media, cementing Hamlin’s appeal among those who support OSU.
Hamlin’s gesture, however, was not universally welcomed. The setting of his celebration—deep in Michigan territory—prompted Michigan fans to respond in kind. —
“Very disgusting to be celebrating with a flag after a win! Act like you’ve been there before Denny…”
one critic posted. Another fan referenced Hamlin’s performance and college allegiances, stating, —
“Not surprised…he loses the big one under pressure. Ohio is a good pick for him.”
The divided responses highlight just how passionate the rivalry remains between these two fan bases, even outside the football field.
Hamlin’s Path to Buckeye Fandom
Denny Hamlin’s connection to Ohio State is not rooted in traditional ties to a university, as he never attended college himself. Instead, his commitment grew from friendships with two passionate OSU fans. In response to questions circulating on social media, Hamlin directly addressed his Buckeye support. —
“I never went to college so no allegiance to any other schools,”
he tweeted.
“I’ve got two friends who are absolute lunatic fanatics of OSU. Went to a game to watch them be fans and I was wildly entertained … Friends ride with OSU, so I ride with them.”
Hamlin’s fandom has been evident in the past, including attending a playoff-semifinal victory over Texas and joining in with OSU chants while sporting team apparel. —
“When you jump on the bandwagon with the best team… the atmosphere was so freaking loud at every play,”
he said. His enthusiasm is driven by camaraderie and a shared experience with friends, rather than alumni loyalty.
Looking Ahead: A Rivalry That Extends Beyond Racing
The gestures and reactions stirred by Denny Hamlin’s celebration underscore the enduring intensity of the rivalry between Michigan and Ohio State, a competition that now finds fresh expression at events like NASCAR races. As Ohio State enters the new football season as the defending champion, set to face the Texas Longhorns for its opener in 2025, the team‘s influence is likely to keep reaching beyond the gridiron, possibly inspiring similar displays among fans—and drivers—across the sports world.
