Denny Hamlin has reached a pivotal moment in his racing career, preparing for what may be his final shot at the NASCAR Cup, as the Denny Hamlin championship chase intensifies heading into 2025. With his age and career trajectory in sharp focus, Hamlin is urging fans to support him in what he describes as his best opportunity yet to claim the elusive championship.
Currently 44 years old and a long-standing driver for Joe Gibbs Racing, Hamlin leads the field with the highest momentum after six impressive wins this season. Set to compete in the 2025 Championship-4 race, Hamlin will be racing against teammate Chase Briscoe along with Hendrick Motorsports’ formidable pair, Kyle Larson and William Byron, making for a closely watched showdown.
Hamlin Reaches Out to NASCAR Fans for Support
As Hamlin’s current contract with Joe Gibbs Racing nears its end, he has indicated that retirement is a real possibility within the next two years. Recognizing his reputation as one of the sport’s most polarizing figures, Hamlin is making a heartfelt appeal to the NASCAR fandom, emphasizing that this season could be his last legitimate shot at the Cup. Meanwhile, his younger rivals are expected to have future opportunities, potentially easing the pressure on them.
“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. So, if you want to see it happen, you’re probably gonna have to root for me this year.”
– Denny Hamlin, told Bob Pockrass of FOX Sports.
This season holds special meaning for the No. 11 Toyota driver, who recently celebrated his 60th career win—a milestone that cements his legacy in NASCAR history. With another chance to augment his already impressive achievements, Hamlin knows that success on race day demands flawless execution, especially since he has faced disappointment from similar championship positions in past seasons.
“I like the opportunity that’s straight in front of us and not the what-ifs of next year. You just never know. All you know right now, and what I know, is that the opportunity is one week away.”
– Denny Hamlin added.
Rival Kyle Larson Recognizes Hamlin’s Legacy
Kyle Larson, Hamlin’s chief championship rival and the only former champion competing in this year’s finale, took a moment to share his respect for Hamlin. Acknowledging Hamlin’s decades-long presence and dedication to the sport, Larson noted that if he himself does not win, he wouldn’t mind seeing Hamlin finally clinch the title he has long sought. Larson’s comments highlight a widespread belief that Hamlin’s career deserves a championship finish.
“He’s a deserving champion and nearing the end of his career, so if I couldn’t win, I’d love to see him because you’d think he’d have one on his resume. He deserves it.”
– Kyle Larson said.
Nonetheless, Larson made it clear that respect does not equate to deference on the track. The Hendrick Motorsports driver is resolute in his quest for another title, determined to challenge Hamlin and the other finalists fiercely. Still, Larson acknowledged that Hamlin’s victory would resonate positively within the NASCAR community—including fans, officials, and fellow competitors.
“It’s not going to stop me from wanting to beat him, but there’s a lot of reasons a Denny Hamlin championship would feel good. I truly think everybody in the sport would be happy, probably even the folks at NASCAR.”
– Kyle Larson added.
High Stakes and Unanswered Questions for No. 11 Team
The broader racing community is watching Hamlin and the No. 11 Joe Gibbs Racing team with anticipation as the championship race approaches. Many agree that finally capturing the Cup would be a fitting capstone for Hamlin’s remarkable career, especially given his persistence and achievements against intense competition. The prevailing question is whether the team can withstand the immense pressure and avoid a repeat of past disappointments, or if the outcome will once again fall short of expectations.
As the field prepares for Sunday’s pivotal race, attention is focused not only on Hamlin and his championship chase but also on the strength of his rivals, including Chase Briscoe, William Byron, and of course, Kyle Larson. Observers from across the sport, from fans to seasoned officials, are weighing in, while Hamlin’s own emotional plea has struck a chord among those hoping to see a legendary competitor achieve his long-sought dream.
With Hamlin’s record number of wins this season and support voiced by peers like Larson, the anticipation for the final showdown is at a fever pitch. The outcome will not only determine the 2025 champion but could also shape how the legacies of Denny Hamlin and his contemporary rivals are remembered in NASCAR history.
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
