Tyler Reddick praises Denny Hamlin mentorship as the driving force behind his evolution into a well-rounded NASCAR competitor, following his move to 23XI Racing in 2023. Reddick, a two-time Xfinity Series champion, has credited Hamlin’s expertise on and off the track for advancing his skills and deepening his understanding of short-track racing and intra-race strategies.
How Hamlin’s Experience Has Impacted Reddick’s Career Growth
Tyler Reddick joined 23XI Racing, co-owned by Denny Hamlin and NBA legend Michael Jordan, last season after a successful stint with RCR, where he had made an immediate impact upon joining the Cup Series in 2020. Reddick’s quick ascent was highlighted by three race victories in 2022, demonstrating his competitive edge and racing talent. His transition to 23XI in 2023 saw him win two races, but he also gained something new: valuable mentorship from Hamlin, a seasoned competitor with over twenty years in top-level stock car racing and holding the second-highest win tally among active NASCAR drivers.
During a press conference ahead of the Brickyard 400, Reddick openly discussed the pivotal role Hamlin has played in his professional growth.
“He’s very high racing IQ. I feel like over the last couple years, he’s done more sharing of that with everybody with the platforms that he uses. For me, he’s really helped me understand short-track racing… I feel like between him and Bubble Wallace, my teammate as well, they’ve helped me better understand what to look for in my car, how to approach the race, how to manage the tires, and just put the race together… But yeah, he’s helped me become a more well-rounded driver.”
—Tyler Reddick, NASCAR driver
As teammates, Reddick and Bubba Wallace have benefitted from Hamlin’s guidance, particularly in critical tactical areas such as tire management and race approach. Reddick highlighted the collaborative nature of working with Hamlin, noting the mutual exchange of strengths and the team’s shared commitment to improvement.
“And you know, the last couple years, Denny’s been able to get wind pulls on road courses, too. So, it’s been fun to share our strengths and work on the weaknesses together. I’ve enjoyed that about it.”
—Tyler Reddick, NASCAR driver
With 2025 signaling the third year of the partnership between Hamlin and Reddick, their professional connection remains a focal point for 23XI Racing as both strive for ongoing success in the Cup Series and beyond.
Potential Uncertainties for the Reddick-Hamlin Working Relationship
Despite recent triumphs, including Reddick’s Regular Season championship with 23XI Racing last year, the team faces potential headwinds. One notable concern stems from the organization’s decision to pursue legal action against NASCAR, which has sparked speculation about whether their top driver will stay engaged with the Huntersville-based squad. The uncertainty poses questions for the leadership team, including Hamlin and Michael Jordan, who both play critical roles in charting the group’s direction.
When asked directly about Reddick’s future with the team, Denny Hamlin offered a measured response to Jeff Gluck:
“I don’t have any direct comment to that.”
—Denny Hamlin, co-owner and driver
While discussions about long-term loyalty continue, it’s important to note that Hamlin is also enjoying a stellar racing season, having secured the most wins of any current driver so far, with his latest victory at Dover Motor Speedway. The accomplishments of both Hamlin and Reddick reinforce 23XI Racing’s profile as a major force in NASCAR, even as the future of their alliance garners increased attention.
As events unfold, the mentorship that Tyler Reddick receives from Denny Hamlin may prove critical—not only in shaping Reddick’s abilities but also in determining the ongoing competitive strength and unity of 23XI Racing within the sport’s highest echelon.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Why did Tyler Reddick cover the Jordan logo?
A. The paint design honors the 40th birthday of the well-known Air Jordan 1 shoe. Early in Michael Jordan’s 15-year NBA career, mostly with the Chicago Bulls, the NBA initially tried to stop him from wearing these shoes.
