Denny Hamlin criticizes 23XI Racing drivers as the team, co-owned with NBA star Michael Jordan, faces mounting pressure in the 2025 NASCAR season. As the season reaches its midpoint, Hamlin is vocally dissatisfied that neither Tyler Reddick nor Bubba Wallace has managed to secure a victory, citing a concerning winless streak that is affecting the team’s standing in the series.
Hamlin, recognized as a powerhouse in the sport with a record of 57 Cup Series wins that include major achievements like the Daytona 500 and Coca-Cola 600, highlighted the team‘s recent struggles. He pointed out that Reddick’s last victory came nearly 19 races ago, while Wallace’s stretch without a win now spans 96 consecutive attempts. Riley Herbst has also failed to contribute a victory, resulting in fewer top finishes and laps led compared to previous years. These results have led Hamlin to make his expectations clear, stating,
All of our drivers should win. That is the expectation that I have of them.
—Denny Hamlin, 23XI Racing Co-Owner. Recent technical problems, including persistent brake rotor failures affecting all three cars, have intensified Hamlin’s disappointment and the ongoing scrutiny of the trio’s performance.
Hamlin Reflects on Carl Edwards and Broader NASCAR Turmoil
Beyond his criticism of the current 23XI Racing drivers, Hamlin also commented on the unexpected early retirement of Carl Edwards. While reflecting on Edwards’ abrupt exit from competitive racing, Hamlin suggested there may be lingering regrets about stepping away, noting Edwards’ raw talent and the possibility that he now wishes he had stayed in NASCAR longer. This side observation highlights the ongoing turbulence and rapid changes faced by drivers within the series.
The critical mood comes at a time when rival drivers such as Max Verstappen, Kyle Busch, and Katherine Legge also face challenging narratives—ranging from shattered public perceptions to on-track setbacks—shaping the overall atmosphere in top-level racing this season.
What Lies Ahead for 23XI Racing and Its Drivers
The public critiques from a figure as respected as Denny Hamlin have set an urgent tone for the rest of the season. As the team grapples with crucial performance gaps, focus will remain on Tyler Reddick, Bubba Wallace, and Riley Herbst as they work to end their respective victory droughts and restore the credibility of the 23XI Racing stable. With the NASCAR community and fans closely monitoring every race, expectations are higher than ever for all involved to turn the season around and deliver results for their ambitious team owners.
