The relationship between Denny Hamlin and Joe Gibbs has become one of the most enduring partnerships in NASCAR, highlighted by the remarkable Denny Hamlin Joe Gibbs bond that continues to shape the landscape of the Cup Series. Their connection, developed over nearly two decades at Joe Gibbs Racing, is viewed by many as more than a driver-owner pairing—it reflects the closeness of a father and son, making a significant impact on the organization’s ongoing success.
The Evolution of Hamlin and Gibbs’ Relationship
Since joining Joe Gibbs Racing in 2006, Denny Hamlin has represented the team with consistency, never once driving for another Cup Series organization. Starting his career in the iconic #11 car—back when the squad still partnered with Chevrolet—Hamlin has been mentored by Joe Gibbs, a legendary figure both in motorsports and in NFL history as a former Super Bowl-winning coach for the Washington franchise, now known as the Commanders. This year marks Hamlin’s 20th season with the team, highlighting a rare longevity in professional racing.
Dave Alpern, the current Joe Gibbs Racing President who has been part of the organization since 1992, has firsthand experience witnessing the duo’s partnership evolve. He remarked that this relationship has grown beyond the professional, describing it as genuinely familial in nature.
“Denny has deep respect for the Gibbs family, and I always appreciated that. You can say whatever you want about Denny. I don’t care if you’re a fan of someone else, or maybe you’re one of the ones who boo him. Denny is a loyal dude.”
— Dave Alpern, Joe Gibbs Racing President
Alpern further emphasized Hamlin’s behind-the-scenes loyalty to the Gibbs organization, noting his conduct not only at the track but also in less public ways.
“Denny has always had that loyalty to the Gibbs family, and he shows it in a lot of ways… a lot of quiet ways behind the scenes that people don’t see, and in a lot of ways with the way he conducts himself sometimes on the racetrack as well.”
— Dave Alpern, Joe Gibbs Racing President
He added, reflecting on their dynamic,
“It really is special, and I would absolutely say that I’ve seen that Coach is kind of that second father to Denny.”
— Dave Alpern, Joe Gibbs Racing President
Hamlin’s Legacy in the #11 and Competitive Milestones
Denny Hamlin has delivered impressive results for Joe Gibbs Racing, carrying the #11 car to victory lane 60 times throughout his Cup Series career. This remarkable achievement ties him with Kevin Harvick for the 10th position on NASCAR’s all-time wins list. His most recent triumph at Las Vegas Motor Speedway solidified his reputation as a driver capable of performing under pressure, clinching him a highly coveted spot among the final four drivers set to compete in the championship race at Phoenix Raceway.
Playoff Prospects and High Expectations for Joe Gibbs Racing
Optimism for a championship win runs high within Joe Gibbs Racing this season, especially following Denny Hamlin’s performance in the Las Vegas race. Chris Gabehart, the team’s Director of Competition and Hamlin’s former crew chief, publicly shared his confidence in the team’s playoff prospects. He believes the championship could see a JGR driver atop the podium, advancing the legacy built by Hamlin, Joe Gibbs, and the entire organization.
“I do think the champion is coming from this room. I have no idea what door number it’s going to be. I genuinely don’t. I think it could be any one of these three door numbers.”
— Chris Gabehart, Joe Gibbs Racing Director of Competition
The current JGR playoff lineup consists of Denny Hamlin, Christopher Bell, and Chase Briscoe. None of them have yet claimed a Cup Series championship, with the organization’s last title secured by Kyle Busch in 2019. As of the latest playoff round, all three JGR drivers remain above the cutline, among the favorites to bring home the trophy. Meanwhile, Hendrick Motorsports’ Kyle Larson is running close alongside them, while William Byron, Chase Elliott, defending champion Joey Logano, and Ryan Blaney are fighting to stay in contention.
The Road Ahead: Superspeedway Showdown and Championship Chase
With the playoff battle intensifying, Joe Gibbs Racing’s focus turns to the upcoming YellaWood 500 at Talladega Superspeedway—a 188-lap test of speed, skill, and teamwork scheduled for October 19. This pivotal event stands as a crucial step for Hamlin and his fellow playoff drivers, who are all determined to secure their spot in the season-defining championship race at Phoenix Raceway.
Fans and analysts alike will closely watch how the Denny Hamlin Joe Gibbs bond translates into on-track success as the season progresses. Their united approach, marked by loyalty, trust, and a relentless drive for excellence, continues to set Joe Gibbs Racing apart as a championship contender, reinforcing a legacy already rich with memorable achievements and racing history.
🗣️ @JoeGibbsRacing's Dave Alpern (@PERNSKI) discusses @dennyhamlin's 60th career win & Hamlin's relationship with the Gibbs family. ⬇️
💭 "I almost get emotional thinking about it because I was there and I was part of it […] it all started with Denny running a test for us." pic.twitter.com/LuZUQSQx0a
— SiriusXM NASCAR Radio (Ch. 90) (@SiriusXMNASCAR) October 17, 2025
