Denny Hamlin’s triumph at Las Vegas Motor Speedway has put him alongside Kevin Harvick in the NASCAR record books for total Cup Series victories, reinforcing the legacy of both racing stars. The connection between Hamlin’s achievement and Kevin Harvick NASCAR achievements became even clearer as veteran crew chief Rodney Childers reflected on his past partnership with Harvick and recognized Hamlin’s dramatic feat.
Rodney Childers, who worked closely with Harvick at Stewart-Haas Racing from 2014 until Harvick retired from Cup Series racing in 2023, recalled their joint success that included 37 wins, 148 top-five finishes, over 230 top-10 results, five Championship 4 appearances, and a landmark Cup Series title in 2014. These statistics cement Harvick’s impact on the sport and provide a compelling benchmark for current drivers.
Hamlin’s victory at the South Point 400 playoff race locked him into the Championship race at Phoenix and tied him with Harvick for 10th place on NASCAR’s all-time win list, drawing wide attention from fans and competitors alike. In a post-race interview, Hamlin said,
“I can’t believe it. I can’t process it, I don’t know what happened. I mean, it’s all a blur. That was one of the very few moments in which I did not think. That entire last 10 laps I did not think whatsoever. I just did.” — Denny Hamlin, Joe Gibbs Racing Driver
Childers related strongly to Hamlin’s comments about the intensity and unpredictability of racing at this level, posting his agreement and admiration in response:
“There are some guys out there that can find a different level at certain times. KH (Kevin Harvick) used to do it quite often and it was awesome to watch. DH (Denny Hamlin) is one of those guys. Those last 10 laps were incredible. I know this one meant a lot.” — Rodney Childers, Crew Chief
With his performance in Las Vegas, Hamlin’s career trajectory now echoes Harvick’s, underlining the significance of these accomplishments in today’s Cup Series competition.
What Lies Ahead for Hamlin and the Remaining Playoff Contenders
After clinching his spot in the final race of the championship, Hamlin can now approach the upcoming rounds with a degree of confidence and reduced pressure. The focus for other drivers will continue at the YellaWood 500 in Talladega, but Hamlin, a native of Tampa, Florida, has the luxury of racing with his ticket to the ultimate showdown already in hand. The championship finale is scheduled to begin November 2 at Phoenix Raceway, where the stakes will be at their highest for all contenders, including Hamlin and his team at Joe Gibbs Racing.
Rodney Childers Joins JR Motorsports with High Expectations from Kevin Harvick
Looking toward the future, veteran crew chief Rodney Childers will take on a new role in 2026, joining JR Motorsports as crew chief for the No. 1 car, which will be driven by rising NASCAR Xfinity Series talent Carson Kvapil. Kevin Harvick voiced enthusiastic support for Childers’ move, noting that the combination of experience and leadership could be transformative for the young driver:
“I think that bringing Rodney in and being able to have that solid leadership of experience and all the things to go with what he will bring to the table. It’s gonna make Kvapil shine.” — Kevin Harvick, Former NASCAR Champion
“That kid is good, and he’s a good racer, he proved that last year and the year before when he first got into that car. But he’s a winner, and I think that’s gonna show up next year. I’m happy for JR Motorsports and Rodney to be able to put that all together to get him going.” — Kevin Harvick, Former NASCAR Champion
Carson Kvapil, though winless this season, currently sits seventh in the championship standings and represents Mooresville, North Carolina. In 2026, Kvapil is set to share driving duties with Connor Zilisch, who is anticipated to advance to Cup racing with Trackhouse Racing. This transition for both drivers and crew marks an important chapter for JR Motorsports and is expected to help shape future race strategies and results.
The Impact of High-Level Performance in NASCAR
The ties between legendary achievements by Kevin Harvick, the current momentum of Denny Hamlin, and the anticipation surrounding Rodney Childers’ move to a new team exemplify the ongoing evolution and excitement within NASCAR. As these figures continue to influence the direction of the sport, their accomplishments and transitions will remain central to conversations among fans and insiders alike, especially with major events such as the Cup Series Championship fast approaching.
There are some guys out there that can find a different level at certain times. KH used to do it quite often and it was awesome to watch.
DH is one of those guys. Those last 10 laps were incredible. I know this one meant a lot…. 🙏🏼 https://t.co/b4F1NYMsdR— Rodney Childers (@RodneyChilders4) October 13, 2025
