Denny Hamlin skips NASCAR Mexico race for family as the long-time driver chooses to remain home following the birth of his third child, triggering a wave of intense reactions from racing fans. The decision, coming just days before the widely anticipated event in Mexico City, has ignited heated debate about priorities and the rules governing playoff eligibility for drivers in similar situations.
Hamlin’s Recent Success and the Lead-Up to Mexico City
NASCAR’s return to Mexico City’s Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez promised excitement, with both fans and drivers eager for the challenge of a venue not featured in the points schedule since 1958. Among the favorites, Denny Hamlin’s strong form—bolstered by three race wins already this season—made him a top contender. His prior experience, having raced and won on the same track nearly two decades ago during his Xfinity days, only heightened expectations for his performance in Mexico.
However, the anticipation shifted when the Joe Gibbs Racing (JGR) team confirmed that Hamlin and his fiancée, Jordan Fish, were awaiting the birth of their third child as the race date approached. The uncertainty surrounding the baby’s arrival led Hamlin to express that he’d participate in Mexico only if his son was born before the event. Ultimately, Hamlin’s decision to prioritize family made headlines, with attention turning to whether NASCAR would support his choice or if he’d be granted a playoff waiver for missing the race.
NASCAR Grants Waiver, but Fans Divide Over Hamlin’s Absence
On June 10, NASCAR addressed the situation and officially stated that the birth of a child constituted a valid reason for missing a race, offering Hamlin a green light for a playoff waiver if he chose to sit out the contest in Mexico. The announcement quelled some uncertainty, but as June 13 arrived, Hamlin revealed the safe arrival of his first son and provided reassurance regarding his family’s health.
In his words,
“My main priority is to be here at home for Jordan and our family for the next few days when she is able to go home and we transition to life as a family of five.”
—Denny Hamlin, NASCAR Driver. Hamlin also indicated that he would return for competition at the Pocono Raceway the following weekend, outlining a brief hiatus to support his growing family.
While Hamlin received congratulations and well wishes for the new addition to his family, backlash was immediate and vehement from some corners of the fanbase. The announcement that Ryan Truex would substitute for Hamlin in his absence added fuel to the debate, especially on social media platforms where fans voiced opposing views.
Public Response: Support and Criticism Over Paternity Leave
Emotions among fans ranged from messages of support to sharp criticism over Hamlin’s choice and the league’s response. One commenter expressed clear disapproval:
“No waiver! The baby has been born. It’s time to be like most other Dads and get back to work! The waiver covers birth, not Paternity leave!”
—Unnamed Fan. Another took issue with the length of break being afforded, writing,
“Hey Bob. Are 3-day weekends now part of the NASCAR waiver system? Young Hamlin is Born! Now it’s time for Denny to race on Sunday. Thanks, Bob!”
—Unnamed Fan.
Not all voices were critical, with some supporting the driver’s desire to be present for his family.
“Hope NASCAR isn’t petty and grants him a waiver.”
—Unnamed Fan. Still, debate persisted about whether the playoff waiver was justified in this situation, echoing sentiments from those who argued the break was unnecessary.
“No way he should get a waiver for this. You can’t just bail on a race that’s still three days away.”
—Unnamed Fan.
Additionally, the substitution of Ryan Truex reignited memories among long-time fans, as one remarked,
“Crazy that Hamlin last missed a race in 2014 and that’s when Ryan Truex last ran a cup race.”
—Unnamed Fan.
Looking Ahead: Impact on Hamlin and NASCAR’s Playoff Landscape
Hamlin’s brief absence underscores the growing conversation around family priorities for elite athletes and the evolving policies of major sports organizations, such as NASCAR’s approach to playoff waivers. The reactions have highlighted both support and resistance to more family-friendly provisions in racing’s traditionally tough culture.
As Hamlin prepares to rejoin the circuit at Pocono Raceway after missing the Mexico City contest, all eyes will be on whether his return can regain momentum in the championship race. The outcome of his playoff participation could set important precedents for other drivers considering similar choices in the future, especially as NASCAR adapts to changing expectations from its teams and fans alike.
