Denny Hamlin, currently at the helm of 23XI Racing alongside NBA legend Michael Jordan, has stated that he is more competitive than Jordan, citing his ongoing participation in professional sports as a key reason. Hamlin made these comments during an appearance on The Dale Jr. Download, highlighting the different stages he and Jordan occupy in their respective athletic journeys and roles within the team.
When asked directly if he considered himself more competitive than Michael Jordan, Hamlin responded without hesitation and elaborated that being “in the arena” every week as an active NASCAR driver gives him a unique mindset compared to someone who has retired from professional competition.
Contrasting Competitive Mindsets: On the Track Versus Beyond Retirement
During the podcast, Denny Hamlin explained the shift in mentality that separates an active athlete from a retired legend. He emphasized that Jordan, despite his reputation for competitiveness, does not have to engage in the weekly battles that come with being a current-day professional driver.
“I think Michael Jordan at 60 years old or 50—I hate to mess this up—but at whatever age he is, it’s different,”
Hamlin said.
“He doesn’t have to compete each and every week. So when you’re in season, or you’re in your job of being a professional sports athlete, your mentality absolutely is different than what it is after you retire.”
—Denny Hamlin, Co-owner and Driver
Hamlin’s regular involvement with 23XI Racing requires him to make crucial strategy decisions and lead the team‘s on-track efforts, whereas Jordan, now primarily a figurehead and major investor in the organization, participates from a different vantage point.
Reflections on His Relationship with Jordan
Hamlin admitted he didn’t know Michael Jordan during his most relentless era on the basketball court. Instead, he has come to know Jordan post-retirement—as a businessman, family man, and fellow golfer—shedding light on how their partnership at 23XI Racing is shaped not just by competitive instincts but by friendship and mutual respect.
“I never had known Michael Jordan during that most intense time of his career. I know him as retired Michael. I know him as family Michael. I know him as my golfing buddy Michael.”
—Denny Hamlin, Co-owner and Driver
Hamlin’s Performance and 23XI’s Growth
In the 2025 Cup Series season, Denny Hamlin remains a central figure on and off the track with four race victories, currently the highest number this year. Even as he continues to chase a long-coveted championship, his relentless pursuit of success directly affects his mindset and approach in leading 23XI Racing as both a co-owner and competitor. Michael Jordan’s role as team investor, meanwhile, supports the team’s ambitions from behind the scenes.
The Ongoing Rivalry and Bond Beyond Racing
While Hamlin makes clear his own daily competitiveness as a professional driver, he also acknowledges that Michael Jordan still possesses his signature competitive flair—especially when they play golf together.
“He still trash talks quit a bit when we go play golf,”
Hamlin said. —Denny Hamlin, Co-owner and Driver
Denny Hamlin’s comparison with Michael Jordan, using the context of his active career versus Jordan’s retired status, highlights the changing nature of athletic competitiveness. As 23XI Racing continues to develop under their joint leadership, the dynamic between Hamlin’s drive and Jordan’s legendary status remains a core part of the team‘s identity and future.
