Denny Hamlin celebrates NASCAR win with Ohio State chant after clinching victory in the FireKeepers Casino 400 held at Michigan International Speedway on Sunday. As a proud Buckeyes supporter, Hamlin made his allegiance clear by performing the O-H-I-O chant right in the heart of Michigan Wolverines country.
Hamlin’s Passion for Ohio State Shines on Track
Denny Hamlin has openly displayed his devotion to Ohio State throughout the past year, incorporating the team’s spirit into his professional racing career. Last year, after a significant win at Martinsville Speedway, he brought out an “11 Against the World” flag. This time, his celebration after conquering Michigan International Speedway became even more pronounced, as he used the high-profile setting to highlight his Ohio State pride.
Competing—and winning—in Michigan, the stronghold of the Wolverines, provided Hamlin a unique opportunity for symbolic rivalry. His O-H-I-O chant after the race served as a pointed nod to Buckeyes fans and a playful shot at the local supporters of Michigan’s team.
How the Ohio State-Inspired Celebration Came About
According to Hamlin, the concept for his celebration was spurred on by his close friends, many of whom share his loyalty to Ohio State. Reflecting on the pre-race conversations, Hamlin described how their encouragement and shared experiences influenced his post-victory actions.
“My friend Travis, he sent me a group text, it was the guys that we went to the (Ohio State) games with last year,”
Hamlin explained. —Denny Hamlin, NASCAR Cup Series Driver
During their exchange, Hamlin promised,
“I’m gonna win today for you, Trav,”
to which another friend responded with a lighthearted remark about his confidence. The camaraderie and banter among his Ohio State friends became a motivational thread as the race day unfolded.
Hamlin recalled,
“He was like, ‘Man, it’d feel good if you won, with that School Up North, like, right in their backyard.’ I said, ‘Well, I’m gonna do it for you.’ So, I did it just for my buddy Trav.”
—Denny Hamlin, NASCAR Cup Series Driver
Balancing Rivalries with Relationships
Although Hamlin’s actions might seem brash, he emphasized that his Ohio State allegiance does not translate into animosity against Michigan. Still, he recognizes the playful tension his celebrations can create, especially among friends and business associates with ties to Michigan. Michael Jordan’s publicist, Estee Portnoy, a Michigan alum and Wolverines enthusiast, is one such acquaintance who has voiced her disapproval of Hamlin’s Buckeye displays.
“I have no (disdain for Michigan),”
Hamlin added. —Denny Hamlin, NASCAR Cup Series Driver
“Michael’s publicist Estee — she hates it. She’s a Michigan grad and absolutely despises me doing this Ohio State stuff. So, I’ve got a little fine, tight tightrope I’ve got to walk a little bit. Me? I wasn’t smart enough to go to any college, so what do I care?”
—Denny Hamlin, NASCAR Cup Series Driver
Playful Antagonism in Michigan’s Backyard
Not content to end the day without one last jab, Hamlin delivered a humorous line to the school’s volunteers working in the Media Center after his win, underscoring the competitive spirit that fuels the Ohio State-Michigan rivalry.
“Hopefully y’all can — at least you’re winning one game a year,”
he joked. —Denny Hamlin, NASCAR Cup Series Driver
Hamlin’s spirited antics at Michigan International Speedway have stirred emotions and highlighted the enduring rivalry between Ohio State and Michigan. While his support has likely earned him newfound admiration from Buckeye fans in Columbus, folks in Ann Arbor and the wider Michigan Wolverines community may view him as the quintessential antagonist in the coming seasons.
This blend of sports passion, friendly provocation, and personal connection illustrates how figures like Hamlin keep age-old rivalries vibrant, using their platform to unite and tease fans both on and off the track.
