Denny Hamlin’s recent response to NASCAR insider Jordan Bianchi sparked heated reactions from fans, reigniting a long-running debate about the ‘win-and-in’ playoff format. The conversation, born out of Bianchi’s comments on The Teardown podcast, drew sharp criticism online as many sided with Hamlin’s stance on the sport’s integrity. With playoff implications hanging over the final races before the postseason, this debate reflects a deeper division between casual entertainment value and the purist view of championship competition.
Key Highlights
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Jordan Bianchi defended NASCAR’s ‘win-and-in’ playoff format on The Teardown podcast, calling it good for entertainment value.
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Denny Hamlin publicly disagreed, saying it prioritizes drama over the sport’s integrity and core fans.
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Mark Martin backed Hamlin’s stance, citing fan polls preferring a full-season championship points system.
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Fans reacted strongly against Bianchi’s take, with many calling his commentary contrarian and hard to listen to.
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The debate adds pressure on NASCAR as 2026 format discussions loom amid growing fan frustration.
Jordan Bianchi’s Take Sparks Heated Debate
Jordan Bianchi’s comments on The Teardown podcast centered on his belief that the ‘win-and-in’ format makes NASCAR’s playoff system more exciting. He argued that it adds stories and stakes for teams like Ryan Preece and Brad Keselowski, giving underdog wins greater significance.
“I think it’s good, I think it heightens the stakes, I think it makes things more exciting, it adds another story, and today is a perfect example… you will not convince me otherwise.” – Jordan Bianchi
The Athletic reporter’s firm stance clashed with many who feel this system undermines season-long consistency. His co-host Jeff Gluck shared the discussion on social media, asking fans and drivers whether Bianchi had a valid point. That’s when Denny Hamlin stepped in.
Denny Hamlin Rejects the ‘Casuals Perspective’
Hamlin, a three-time Daytona 500 winner and outspoken veteran of the sport, didn’t hold back in his response. He believes that wins should matter but not in a way that sacrifices championship integrity for one-off results.
“No, he does not. He’s picking entertainment from a casuals perspective over the sport’s integrity and our core fan base. Numbers don’t lie.” – Denny Hamlin
Is @Jordan_Bianchi right? Does he have a point? https://t.co/TfzdgYM355
— Jeff Gluck (@jeff_gluck) August 5, 2025
Hamlin’s reply highlighted concerns that single-race winners can qualify for the playoffs despite mediocre seasons, while dominant drivers can miss out on a championship shot. Mark Martin echoed this view, suggesting fans prefer a return to season-long points formats.
Fans Rally Behind Denny Hamlin
The exchange quickly drew widespread attention, and the overwhelming majority of fan comments online leaned against Bianchi’s take. Many labeled his approach as argumentative and out of touch with what long-term fans want from NASCAR.
“Bianchi is a good reporter, but has the absolute shittiest takes. Denny is right.” – NASCAR Fan Reaction
“Know nothing about Bianchi besides listening to the Teardown but he definitely seems like the type of person who just likes to take the contrarian side to everything.” – NASCAR Fan Reaction
“Man, the few times I’ve tried listening to the Teardown it’s because I wanna hear Jeff, but Bianchi just comes across as such an ass to me that I almost immediately turn it off whenever he starts rambling.” – NASCAR Fan Reaction
“Bianchi comes off as a classic contrarian, going against the grain just because he can and arguing for the sake of arguing and stirring up debate.” – NASCAR Fan Reaction
Many expressed frustration with The Teardown podcast’s tone, saying debates between Bianchi and Gluck often feel forced and repetitive. A number of fans admitted they stopped listening due to what they considered bad takes and unnecessary arguments.
NASCAR’s Playoff Format Faces Growing Pressure
The controversy highlights a larger issue NASCAR has faced since introducing the playoff system. Last season, Kyle Larson won six races but missed the Championship 4, while Ryan Blaney contended for the title with fewer wins. Critics argue this undermines the competitive integrity of the sport, rewarding isolated wins over consistent excellence.
Mark Martin pointed to fan poll numbers showing more than 50% prefer a 36-race championship format and another 30% want a 10-race chase system. Broadcasters may value unpredictability and drama, but fans are making it clear they prioritize fairness and merit over manufactured storylines. NASCAR has not announced any changes for 2025 or 2026, but growing dissatisfaction among drivers and fans could push the sanctioning body to revisit the playoff format in the near future.
News in Brief: Fans Back Denny Hamlin in NASCAR Playoff Debate
Denny Hamlin’s firm rejection of Jordan Bianchi’s playoff stance has fueled a wave of fan backlash toward The Teardown podcast. Many criticized Bianchi’s arguments as contrarian and detrimental to the sport’s image. Hamlin and NASCAR legend Mark Martin argued for restoring competitive integrity over “casual entertainment.” Fans overwhelmingly backed their viewpoint, calling for a points-based system rewarding season-long performance. NASCAR has not confirmed any format changes, but debate is intensifying.
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