Denny Hamlin Michigan post-race O-H celebration controversy erupted after his latest NASCAR win, as the Joe Gibbs Racing driver’s celebratory gesture drew a mixed response from fans at Michigan International Speedway. Hamlin was amused by the incident, discussing it with humor and candor on his podcast while recognizing the divided reaction from the crowd.
Hamlin’s Actions Spark a Mixed Reaction at Michigan
Known for attracting controversy both on and off the track, Denny Hamlin is no stranger to scrutiny. The No. 11 driver, representing Joe Gibbs Racing, has often been in the spotlight for his unapologetically blunt demeanor and distinctive celebration styles. This time, after securing his third victory of the NASCAR season at Michigan, Hamlin celebrated near the stands, where an initially receptive crowd soon shifted their mood.
During the race, Hamlin started in third position and remained competitive, running consistently with the leading drivers. With just five laps left, Hamlin trailed William Byron before overtaking him in a tense duel that saw the two cars run side by side for almost a full lap. Hamlin completed the decisive pass coming out of Turn Three on lap 197, sealing another notable win this season.
Following the victory, Hamlin guided his No. 11 Toyota towards the fans, intending to bask in the moment. The fans, initially applauding his dramatic late-race performance, rapidly changed their tone when Hamlin flashed an ‘O-H’ hand sign—a nod to the Ohio State Buckeyes. Given the rivalry between Ohio State and Michigan, the crowd quickly erupted in boos, reflecting the ongoing sports rivalry in the region.
Addressing the Controversy on His Podcast
Hamlin, who has openly expressed his support for the Buckeyes on multiple occasions, was undeterred by the negative reaction in Michigan. He chose to discuss the incident on his podcast, ‘Actions Detrimental,’ appearing to find amusement in the backlash rather than frustration. Travis Rockhold, the show’s producer, lightheartedly questioned Hamlin:
Have you heard from MJ’s publicist yet?
Hamlin, laughing, replied to co-host Jared Allen that MJ’s publicist had actually gone to Michigan, and remarked:
I think quite a few of our my legal team is Michigan grads as well.
Reflecting on his own background, Hamlin admitted:
I was never even smart enough to go to college, so I just jump on the bandwagon of winners.
The podcast crew’s humor continued as Rockhold joked about getting Hamlin an honorary degree from Ohio State University, prompting more laughter. Hamlin then commented with a sense of playful rivalry:
I’ll tell you, Trav, to be factual though, it’s good to see us Ohio State guys finally beat Michigan. It felt good.
The podcast team laughed together, sharing in the lighthearted spirit of the exchange and moving on to other topics without dwelling on the controversy.
What the Incident Means for NASCAR and Hamlin
This incident adds another chapter to the ongoing discussion about how drivers interact with fans and rival communities in NASCAR. Hamlin’s ability to address controversy with humor and openness highlights his comfort in the public eye, even when his actions provoke strong reactions. The boos at Michigan underscore the passionate regional loyalties in American motorsports, while Hamlin’s playful acceptance of the situation suggests that he is willing to use those passions to fuel positive engagement—even if it means being at the center of debate.
As NASCAR’s season continues, moments like Hamlin’s O-H celebration at Michigan are likely to remain part of the conversation, amplifying both the drama on the track and the emotional connection with fans. For Denny Hamlin, both his victories and his controversies ensure that he will remain a focal point as the sport moves forward.
