Denny Hamlin, a seasoned driver for Joe Gibbs Racing, has renewed his call for a fundamental change to the NASCAR playoff system, arguing that a revamped format would lend more legitimacy to the championship. During a recent appearance on Dale Jr. Download with Hall of Famer Dale Earnhardt Jr., Hamlin advocated for a shift that would reshape how the Bill France Cup winner is decided, placing the Denny Hamlin NASCAR playoff format change under the spotlight again.
Calls for a Championship Round Gain Momentum
Hamlin has openly expressed his dissatisfaction with the current single-race finale, especially as recent champions, such as Joey Logano and Ryan Blaney, have capitalized on peak performances in clutch moments rather than season-long excellence. His proposal centers on expanding the playoff’s decisive phase to a multi-race championship round, suggesting that a larger sample of races would better determine the most deserving champion. Hamlin believes that increasing the number of decisive races could maintain television appeal while improving the system’s fairness.
I certainly would be in favor of a championships round. You have all the other rounds, why not a championship round? I think there’s enough compelling stories that TV could make it work.
—Denny Hamlin, via Dale Jr. Download.
This is not a new argument for Hamlin, a three-time Daytona 500 winner often regarded as the best active driver without a championship title. He has consistently pushed for the introduction of a championship round rather than returning to a pure points-based system from NASCAR’s history. Hamlin indicates that if such a format were in place, his own chances of becoming a champion would have been stronger, as sustained performance over several races would be more heavily rewarded.
Potential Benefits for Cities and NASCAR’s Business
Hamlin’s vision extends beyond the drivers, highlighting benefits for host cities and the sport’s commercial prospects. He suggests the championship round could include anywhere from three to ten races, providing opportunities for various locations to share in the excitement and economic benefits of hosting decisive playoff events. This approach would broaden the championship’s geographic and promotional reach, likely boosting local interest, attendance, and business activity around each event.
I think it’s good for the cities that are a part of that. If you had three, five, 10… I don’t know how many races this would be. But certainly it’s going to open up the possibility of the cities getting a round being a part of that championship round, and hopefully the fan turnout (is better) as well.
—Denny Hamlin
The additional rounds could also heighten anticipation and build narratives around the championship build-up, benefiting sponsors and increasing media attention. By involving more cities, NASCAR would create opportunities for a wider range of fans to witness high-stakes competition, while simultaneously increasing the sport’s exposure throughout the playoff period.
Dale Earnhardt Jr. Sees Value in Hamlin’s Proposal
Hamlin’s ideas resonated strongly with Dale Earnhardt Jr., who, during their podcast conversation, endorsed the concept. Earnhardt Jr. believes that expanding the final stage would result in more credible champions by better reflecting a driver’s consistency over an extended period. This would allow for occasional mistakes without costing a contender their entire season, making the eventual winner a more accurate representative of season-long excellence.
I think that that would reward the better champion. Not that there’s been a champion that’s not been deserving, but it’s certainly the bigger the sample size that you give it’s going to be more indicative of your top drivers that perform week in, week out like you talk about. Not just one particular week.
—Dale Earnhardt Jr.
Earnhardt Jr.’s backing strengthens the case for change, as he not only brings his racing success and Hall of Fame status but also acts as a voice for both the racing community and the fan base. The proposed shift, in his view, would counter the narrative that the championship is a result of chance or temporary form, and instead serve as a testament to those who excel over the long haul.
Addressing Controversy and the Push for Reform
The current format, criticized by some as a “mickey mouse championship,” has divided the NASCAR community for years. Critics say the one-race finale can leave the title vulnerable to fluke outcomes, undermining the work put in by drivers and teams throughout the season. Proponents of change, like Hamlin and Earnhardt Jr., argue that revamping the playoffs would entice legacy fans yearning for the sport’s previous structure while also engaging a new generation of viewers seeking compelling, multi-event drama.
Many within the NASCAR world see a multi-race championship round as a way to increase their chances of winning, encourage more balanced competition, and open up fresh opportunities for marketing and local engagement. It remains to be seen whether the sanctioning body, NASCAR, will heed these calls, but the growing discussion suggests the racing landscape may be poised for change.
What’s Next for NASCAR’s Playoff Format?
The debate over NASCAR’s playoff system has intensified with Hamlin and Earnhardt Jr. bringing renewed attention to its perceived flaws and the advantages of a broader championship round. As the conversation continues among drivers, fans, and executives, the sport faces critical decisions about how to maintain excitement and credibility in the championship fight. Whether the sanctioning body takes up Hamlin’s proposal or explores similar ideas, the question of how NASCAR crowns its true champion is sure to remain at the forefront as the series looks toward future seasons.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. How did Denny Hamlin get so rich?
A. Denny Hamlin started racing full-time in the Cup Series in 2006 with Joe Gibbs Racing. Since then, he has achieved great success, winning 51 races. He has also won the Daytona 500 three times, in 2016, 2019, and 2020, and made millions from his racing career.
Q. Did Denny Hamlin and Jordan Fish get married?
A. Denny Hamlin is engaged to Jordan Fish. Their first meeting didn’t go well, but things improved during their second meeting. They started dating in 2007. Despite facing some challenges, they have stayed close and committed to each other.
Q. How is Denny Hamlin so rich?
A. The Secrets to Denny Hamlin’s $65 Million Net Worth: He earned over $100 million in his NASCAR career through contracts and winnings. He also has major endorsements with companies like FedEx, Jordan Brand, and Toyota. Additionally, he co-owns 23XI Racing, which is now worth over $100 million.
Q. How does Denny Hamlin know Michael Jordan?
A. Denny Hamlin described how his partnership with Michael Jordan in NASCAR’s 23XI team happened unexpectedly. While on Barstool Sports with Frank Walks, Hamlin shared how he met Jordan during a Charlotte Hornets game he attended. At halftime, security asked Hamlin to meet with Jordan.
