During the NASCAR Cup Series event at New Hampshire Motor Speedway, Denny Hamlin became the center of attention after an on-track altercation with Ty Gibbs, igniting drama among Joe Gibbs Racing teammates. The Denny Hamlin New Hampshire incident unfolded as the two drivers fought for position during the race, highlighting underlying friction within the team.
On-Track Clash Sparks Heated Reactions
The incident developed as Hamlin and Gibbs battled intensely for 11th place. Hamlin, frustrated with the contest, ran out of patience and pushed aggressively, leading to a pivotal moment on lap 110. Driving hard into the corner, Hamlin clipped the left rear of Ty Gibbs’s car, causing Gibbs to spin and back into the fence. Both drivers’ actions created a tense atmosphere in the garage and on radio communications, with emotions running high between the teammates.
As the altercation unfolded, Hamlin made his feelings clear, exclaiming over the radio, “What the (expletive)!” Ty Gibbs, racing defensively with both Denny Hamlin and Christopher Bell—both of whom are playoff contenders—close behind, found himself in the challenging position that led to the incident. Ty Gibbs is notably the grandson of Joe Gibbs, the owner of Joe Gibbs Racing, adding further complexity to the team dynamics.
Team Communications Highlight Strained Dynamics
Following the incident, Hamlin questioned his team over the radio, asking,
“Are they afraid to talk to him? That’s what I feel like. They’re just scared of him.”
— Denny Hamlin, Driver. The No. 11 crew responded with,
“I don’t know the answer to that right now. I’m just focused on trying to get the finish. We’ll talk.”
— No. 11 Team Member.
Meanwhile, Ty Gibbs, after receiving a tow to the garage, signaled his readiness for ongoing rivalry by stating, “Game on,” as the race continued at New Hampshire Motor Speedway.
Significance for Team and Season
This clash at New Hampshire Motor Speedway underlines the challenges facing Joe Gibbs Racing as internal competition turns contentious on the track. With both Hamlin and Bell in the playoff hunt, and the added family connections of Ty and Joe Gibbs, future races may see heightened tension among teammates. The Denny Hamlin New Hampshire incident stands out as a pivotal moment that could influence both team strategies and relationships as the NASCAR Cup Series season progresses.
The Nos. 11 and 54 get together! @TyGibbs spins and backs it into the wall. pic.twitter.com/Qp9oVyufFF
— NASCAR (@NASCAR) September 21, 2025
