Denny Hamlin expressed his satisfaction with the conduct of drivers during Saturday’s NASCAR Xfinity Series event at Martinsville, noting the level-headed competition and referencing the critical last-lap battle. Offering his perspective on the outcome, Hamlin specifically discussed Taylor Gray’s notable victory, outlining his thoughts on the Denny Hamlin Martinsville Xfinity reaction and its implications for the ongoing series.
Hamlin Comments on Driver Choices and Sportsmanship
On the “Actions Detrimental” podcast, Denny Hamlin provided a candid analysis of the final moments of the race, focusing on the contest between Taylor Gray and Sammy Smith. Hamlin highlighted that Gray showed strength throughout the spring season, falling just short of wins in the past, while Smith’s approach in the closing laps echoed a familiar pattern from previous races. Hamlin noted the difference this time was Smith’s decision to avoid a risky move, reflecting a sense of learning and maturity among competitors.
“Sammy was in a position where if he wins that race, he moves on. So good restraint by him on that and really kind of all-around job well done from the Xfinity Series not turning this into a s**t show like i usually is.”
– Denny Hamlin, Driver
After the overtime restart, Gray managed to separate himself from Smith, ultimately claiming his first Xfinity Series win. Had Smith clinched the win, he would have advanced to the Championship race at Phoenix, but Gray’s achievement instead allowed Carson Kvapil to secure a spot in the final four. The group advancing to compete for the championship now includes Kvapil, Jesse Love, Justin Allgaier, and rookie Connor Zilisch, reflecting the evolving competitive landscape this season.
Reactions from Drivers and Crew After the Race
Following his maiden victory, Taylor Gray credited the teamwork and preparation that contributed to his success.
“(Crew chief) Jason Ratcliff, all these guys – the pit crew did an awesome job tonight,”
Gray said, per NASCAR.com.
“They give me opportunities to win every time I walk through the gates to this race track.”
– Taylor Gray, Driver
Gray attributed his winning run to a key decision made during the final moments of the race, stating,
“I knew I needed to get a good enough launch so that I wouldn’t have anyone in reach of me heading into Turn 1. At that point, I knew we had a good enough car to drive away from the guys behind me.”
– Taylor Gray, Driver
Meanwhile, Sammy Smith openly shared his feelings about narrowly missing out on a championship berth.
“I feel like we’re good enough to be in the final four,”
Smith remarked.
“We weren’t good enough in the playoffs to do that. It really sucks, so we’ll just regroup and keep digging.”
– Sammy Smith, Driver
Upcoming Championship Race and Broader Impact
The field now turns its attention to the Xfinity Series Championship race, scheduled for 7:30 p.m. ET at Phoenix Raceway and broadcasting on The CW. This event also marks the end of Xfinity’s tenure as the series entitlement sponsor, a significant moment for the sport and its fans. The upcoming race will see Carson Kvapil, Jesse Love, Justin Allgaier, and Connor Zilisch vying for the title, following a season marked by intense competition and measured on-track behavior. The outcomes at Martinsville have not only shaped the championship lineup but have underscored the value of restraint and strategic racing, as highlighted by Denny Hamlin’s Martinsville Xfinity reaction and the experiences of key participants like Taylor Gray, Smith, and the pit crew supporting their campaigns.
