Joey Logano's car makes a crucial move at the Roval playoff race. [Image Source: CLOUDINARY]
Denny Hamlin’s decision to make a late pass at the Charlotte Roval dramatically influenced the playoff standings, unexpectedly aiding Joey Logano’s playoff survival as the race neared its conclusion. The move, which took place during intense final laps, left Hamlin reflecting on his actions, wishing he’d handled the situation differently regarding Joey Logano playoff survival.
During the closing moments at Charlotte, Hamlin’s attempt to pass Ross Chastain for position resulted in both drivers spinning through the final chicane. This opened an opportunity for Joey Logano to slip past and finish ahead of Chastain, a result that ultimately kept Logano in playoff contention. Hamlin shared his regret on his Actions Detrimental podcast, noting he was unaware of how the battle would affect the playoff cutline. He admitted,
“If I had known he was going to make a desperate move here, then I would have attacked those last two corners differently,”
Denny Hamlin, driver.
Frustration grew for Hamlin as he realized the pass had cost him five spots in the race order, a critical blow both personally and for his team.
“It did cost us five spots. I’m not happy about that.”
Denny Hamlin, driver. He further explained his uncertainty as the race ended, saying he was not fully aware of the exact points scenario unfolding around him.
“Truthfully, I wish I would have just known what the last scenario was, and then I could make the best decision I can for me,”
Denny Hamlin, driver.
“I didn’t know if I was racing for 10th or 25th.”
Denny Hamlin, driver.
Reflecting on the outcome, Hamlin acknowledged he would have chosen not to make the pass if he had known its full significance.
Image of: Joey Logano
“I would not have passed him,”
Denny Hamlin, driver.
“If I’d known what was at stake, I’d have stayed behind.”
Impact on Hamlin and the No. 11 Team’s Playoff Hopes
Afterward, Hamlin emphasized the move’s consequences for both his race finish and future playoff prospects.
“It cost us five spots, and I told Chris Gayle before the race, whatever our strategy is, just make sure we get the best finish we can,”
Denny Hamlin, driver.
“I care about our finish because I don’t want to go out early in Vegas.”
Denny Hamlin, driver.
The Joe Gibbs Racing No. 11 team has already endured a grueling playoff stretch, dealing with a run-in with Ty Gibbs and poor results at venues like Bristol. Hamlin openly shared his frustration over the lack of situational awareness this late in the season, given how narrow the margins are for continuing in the competition.
When considering who he might rather race against in the upcoming round, Hamlin did not hold back his candid view.
“I have no allegiance to any one of those cars,”
Denny Hamlin, driver.
“I think the 22 has the better shot of winning Phoenix. But I can’t win Phoenix unless I get there first.”
Denny Hamlin, driver.
On the lighter side, Joey Logano quipped about owing Hamlin a holiday gift for the unintentional assist that kept his playoff run alive, a sentiment that may only add to Hamlin’s frustration as the postseason battles continue.
What Lies Ahead in the Championship Battle
The events at the Charlotte Roval have reshuffled playoff expectations, putting extra pressure on Hamlin and the No. 11 Joe Gibbs Racing team as they prepare for the next challenge in Las Vegas. The intense competition, especially after a costly decision, means every move will be scrutinized while teams including those led by Chris Gayle and drivers like Ty Gibbs, Ross Chastain, and Joey Logano remain in contention. As the playoffs progress, the tension promises to remain high and each decision will be crucial for drivers fighting to reach Phoenix and claim the championship.
