The longstanding Joe Gibbs Racing NASCAR rivalry with Hendrick Motorsports is the focus as both teams are set to battle in the Cup Series Championship 4 on November 2, at Phoenix Raceway. Hendrick Motorsports fields drivers Kyle Larson and William Byron, while Joe Gibbs Racing brings Denny Hamlin and Chase Briscoe, making for a high-stakes showdown between these dominant organizations.
Historic Rivalry Continues in Championship 4
This marks the second instance in four years that the Championship 4 features an equal split between Joe Gibbs Racing and Hendrick Motorsports—recognized as the two most successful playoff teams in NASCAR history. Nate Ryan of the AP reported that the champion will be the top finisher among these four at Phoenix. Over more than three decades, these two powerhouses have formed a rivalry marked by mutual respect and close competition, accumulating a combined 547 Cup wins.
Drivers and Team Histories Add High Drama
Hendrick Motorsports, with previous champion Kyle Larson and William Byron, has now placed two drivers in the final four for the third time. Denny Hamlin and Chase Briscoe represent Joe Gibbs Racing, making it the fourth occasion the team has had at least two drivers in this decisive stage. The history runs deep: after Joe Gibbs transitioned from being a three-time Super Bowl-winning head coach, he sought advice from Rick Hendrick on starting a NASCAR team, and even received engines for JGR’s 1992 Cup debut. Hendrick also welcomed Gibbs to high-level executive meetings, highlighting the cooperative roots underlying their competition.
Team Leadership Expects a Fierce Contest
Jeff Gordon, Vice Chair of Hendrick Motorsports, stated,
“expecting an ‘epic battle’ between two team owners who maintain an ‘incredible relationship’ with regular conversations,”
AP, 10/27. The friendship and mutual admiration between Rick Hendrick and Joe Gibbs continue, influencing not just their teams but the entire landscape of the Cup Series.
What Lies Ahead for Both Teams
With decades of rivalry and collaboration, the upcoming race at Phoenix Raceway is positioned to be a defining moment for both teams and the sport. The outcome will not only crown a new champion but also add a significant chapter to the celebrated Joe Gibbs Racing NASCAR rivalry, keeping fans and the racing community eagerly anticipating who will emerge victorious.
