Denny Hamlin faces a pivotal moment in his Denny Hamlin NASCAR championship pursuit as he prepares for the Championship 4 race at Phoenix. The veteran driver, representing Joe Gibbs Racing, is encouraging fans to support his quest for his first Cup Series title, especially with the competition featuring younger stars.
Hamlin Addresses Why Fans Should Support His Bid
Although Denny Hamlin has built a dedicated group of supporters over his NASCAR career, he continues to be met with loud boos at race tracks. With the season culminating in Phoenix, fans are divided about which driver to cheer for among the Championship 4 contenders.
Recently, Bob Pockrass of FOX Sports asked Hamlin directly why NASCAR fans should root for him to clinch the championship, particularly if they aren’t already aligned with one of the remaining drivers.
“Because if you root for the other drivers, they’re going to have a lot more opportunities to win a championship in the future than I will,”
Denny Hamlin, Driver, said, laughing.
“So, if you want to see it happen, you’re probably gonna have to root for me this year.”
Denny Hamlin, Driver.
Bob Pockrass questioned whether upcoming changes to the championship format could give Hamlin more chances in coming seasons. Hamlin responded by saying,
“I like the opportunity that’s straight in front of us and not the what-ifs of next year,”
Denny Hamlin, Driver.
“You just never know. All you know right now, and what I know, is that the opportunity is one week away.”
Denny Hamlin, Driver.
Hamlin has experienced heartbreak in previous championship attempts and is eager to overcome the so-called curse that has kept the title out of reach. He stands alongside Jon Sumrall, Dan Lanning, Matt Rhule, and other notable figures in NASCAR history as he perseveres toward this career-defining goal.
Season of Highs and Looming Legal Battles
This year stands out in Hamlin’s long career, marked by six Cup Series victories—the most of any driver this season. With his 60th Cup win, Hamlin is tied for 10th place on NASCAR’s all-time wins list, solidifying his legacy among the sport’s elite. Off the track, however, Hamlin is facing a lawsuit involving NASCAR, which could head to trial if negotiations stall. Securing the coveted Bill France Cup would be a significant moment for both Hamlin and the sport, especially given this context.
Chasing Glory Against a Young Field
The battle for the championship will not be easy. Hamlin must outpace three talented drivers who each have over a decade less experience than him, positioning the seasoned veteran against NASCAR’s new stars. Despite the generational gap, Hamlin’s focus and preparation have been on display throughout the Playoffs, particularly when his car performance has not been hampered by mechanical issues.
As the Phoenix race approaches, Hamlin is set to give his all, hoping his efforts will finally secure him a long-awaited championship. The outcome will not only affect Hamlin’s legacy, but also make an impact across Joe Gibbs Racing and the broader Cup Series field, including young talents and other championship hopefuls.
What Lies Ahead for Hamlin and NASCAR
If Hamlin manages to claim the championship, it would represent the culmination of years of effort and near-misses, demonstrating resilience in a field often dominated by emerging younger competitors. His story adds to the intensity and emotional undercurrent of this year’s NASCAR Playoffs, especially as fans await the final results at the historic Phoenix track. With potential changes looming in the NASCAR championship format, this could be Hamlin’s best—and possibly last—chance to secure his place among racing’s greatest champions.
The racing world will be watching closely to see if Denny Hamlin’s championship pursuit finally comes to fruition, possibly altering his narrative from perennial contender to Cup Series champion.
Denny Hamlin laughed at the question of why fans should root for him. His answer: @NASCARONFOX pic.twitter.com/rH7s9liNNo
— Bob Pockrass (@bobpockrass) October 30, 2025
