Denny Hamlin earned his 60th career NASCAR Cup Series win in an emotional victory at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, securing his place in the Championship Race at Phoenix Raceway. The Denny Hamlin NASCAR Las Vegas win was especially significant as Hamlin dedicated the achievement to his ill father and reflected on the challenges he faced en route to this milestone.
Hamlin’s Hard-Fought Road to Victory
The race at Las Vegas Motor Speedway marked a pivotal moment for Hamlin, not just for his playoff aspirations, but also on a personal level. With tears in his eyes at the finish, Hamlin immediately thought of his father, Dennis, who has been unwell at home. Knowing how much the win would mean to his family, he was determined to seize the day in one of the season’s most crucial events. Hamlin’s triumph ties him with Kevin Harvick for the 10th-most wins in NASCAR Cup Series history and guarantees him a shot at his first career championship at Phoenix.
As the checkered flag waved, Hamlin’s emotional response underscored the weight of the moment. He said,
“This is the point where I usually give the fans some sh*t but not today. I appreciate all of you so much. Obviously want to say hi to my dad, family back at home, all the friends that came out here hoping we get 60. I didn’t think we were. Just put the pedal down those last 10 laps and made it happen.”
– Denny Hamlin, Driver
Strategic Moves Pay Off on Race Day
The foundation for Hamlin’s win was set long before race day. He spent seven hours on the simulator in preparation for the Round of 8 opener in Las Vegas, which resulted in him clinching pole position. Although he only led nine laps and faced a setback with a prolonged pit stop in Stage 3, Hamlin maintained his composure. He overtook Kyle Larson and eventually passed Joe Gibbs Racing teammate Chase Briscoe with just three laps remaining to seize the lead.
Praising the teamwork and crucial adjustments made in the final moments, Hamlin shared,
“Chris did an amazing job on that final stop getting the car just right. I just held it down,”
and added,
“It’s all I could do just to go for it. I felt like I had nothing to lose, just go for it and try to punch a ticket now. Man, this one feels great. … Just super proud of this team for making the adjustments they did. Pit crew for doing a great job all day. … I don’t know what to say. It was very unexpected. The last 15 laps I didn’t think we were going to win. I knew I was going to give it all I had.”
– Denny Hamlin, Driver
Joining Legends and Targeting a Championship
By winning in Las Vegas, Hamlin matched Kevin Harvick’s career win total, cementing his legacy among the sport’s greats. This victory not only advances him to the final round of the playoffs at Phoenix but also intensifies his quest for a first NASCAR Cup Series championship—a goal that has eluded him throughout his decorated career. Key contributors like crew chief Chris Gayle and the dedicated pit crew played vital roles in overcoming setbacks during the race, ensuring Hamlin remained in contention during the decisive laps.
At 44 years of age, Hamlin recognizes the urgency of his title chase. He approaches the Phoenix finale with the awareness that chances to win it all are becoming limited. Nonetheless, the passion fueling him, bolstered by support for his father and family, is evident through each determined performance.
What the Win Means for Hamlin’s Future
This milestone win resonates deeply, not just for Hamlin but for his fans, team members, and loved ones, including his father Dennis and supporters back at home. The achievement keeps Hamlin’s championship hopes alive and positions him as a formidable competitor in what promises to be a dramatic finale in Phoenix. NASCAR and Las Vegas Motor Speedway witnessed a moment that blends professional triumph with personal emotion, adding a memorable chapter to Hamlin’s storied career.
As the Cup Series heads to Phoenix, Hamlin’s fierce drive and this emotional Las Vegas victory serve as a statement that he remains a serious contender for the championship. Racing alongside other top drivers, Hamlin will seek to cap his 2025 season with the one prize that still eludes him—a NASCAR Cup Series title.
This one means a little more for @dennyhamlin. pic.twitter.com/q5A9RlsIkI
— NASCAR (@NASCAR) October 13, 2025
