Calls for change have erupted after an incident in Mexico City involving Riley Herbst, with Denny Hamlin under pressure to replace Riley Herbst amid escalating fan outrage. The drama unfolded at the Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez as Herbst, piloting the No. 35 Toyota for 23XI Racing, became the focal point of controversy during the latest NASCAR Cup Series event.
Fan Criticism Grows After Mexico City Incident
While the fierce competition between Shane Van Gisbergen and Christopher Bell grabbed headlines, Riley Herbst’s misstep on lap 73 shifted attention to the race‘s intense undercurrents. Herbst, who had started 15th, was vying for 13th place when his vehicle collided with William Byron. Exiting turn 11, his car lost control and spun dangerously back into oncoming traffic, nearly causing a major wreck with Ricky Stenhouse Jr.
The chaotic moment quickly ignited online reactions. Jeff Gluck, a NASCAR insider, provided an immediate update on X, sparking a flurry of heated commentary in his post’s replies.
“Wow, almost a wild crash with Riley Herbst! He spun back around across traffic!!”
—Jeff Gluck, NASCAR Insider. Fans amplified their frustration, venting about both Herbst’s driving and his team’s decision-making in real-time. One particularly vocal user posted,
“Driver and spotter should be parked immediately. And be suspended next week. That was some ARCA-level idiocy,”
—Fan, on social media. Another added,
“Please park the 35; he’s a liability.”
—Fan, on social media.
Debate Over Riley Herbst’s Future Intensifies
The ongoing criticism has placed significant strain on Denny Hamlin, who owns 23XI Racing, as supporters clamor for action. Many fans believe it is time for Herbst to be replaced, especially considering that Corey Heim, another promising driver for Hamlin’s organization, is seen as a stronger contender. The persistent theme running through social discourse is a demand for accountability and change within the team.
Herbst, who gained recognition through his Monster Energy sponsorship and achievements in the Xfinity Series, has struggled to replicate that success in the Cup Series. As the intensity of NASCAR competition on diverse tracks like the Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez grows, so does the pressure for managers and owners to respond decisively to their drivers’ on-track performance.
Corey Heim’s Outstanding Performance Adds Pressure
The call for a switch has gained further traction due to Corey Heim’s impressive record in the 2025 Truck Series. Heim has tallied four victories and eight top-five finishes in just thirteen starts, distinguishing himself as a rising talent among his peers. Denny Hamlin himself has acknowledged Heim’s standout performances, suggesting that it is only a matter of time before Heim makes the leap to NASCAR’s top level.
The combination of Herbst’s difficulties and Heim’s rapid ascent has pushed fans and insiders to speculate about an impending roster change within 23XI Racing. Whether Herbst will retain his seat or be replaced by the in-demand Heim remains a central talking point in NASCAR circles.
What the Fan Community Is Saying
Social media has become a platform for fans to air their grievances, with intense debate over whether Riley Herbst deserves another opportunity or if Corey Heim should take over immediately.
“Should Riley Herbst be benched for Corey Heim, or does he deserve another chance to prove himself?”
—Fan, on social media.
Many participants reference Herbst’s previous performances and potential, but the recent near-disaster in Mexico City has heightened calls for decisive action, underlining an atmosphere of tension and expectation around 23XI Racing’s next move.
Implications for Denny Hamlin and the Team
The aftermath of Riley Herbst’s crash has placed Denny Hamlin in a difficult position. Decisions he makes regarding his Cup Series lineup will be closely watched by fans, peers, and industry insiders. The pressure from the fan base is unlikely to subside soon, especially with Corey Heim continuing to excel and demand for change growing louder.
As the NASCAR season continues, all eyes will be on Hamlin and his team to see if they respond to the calls for a lineup change, or if Herbst will be given another opportunity to secure his place. The answer may shape not only the team’s future but also the broader narrative of accountability and competitiveness in the NASCAR Cup Series.
