The long-standing Rick Hendrick NASCAR rivalry with Joe Gibbs will be in sharp focus as both send two drivers each into the 2025 NASCAR Cup Series championship, setting the stage for a dramatic showdown. Although Hendrick Motorsports and Joe Gibbs Racing have competed fiercely on the track, Hendrick recently spoke about the profound friendship and mutual respect that he shares with Gibbs, highlighting the personal struggles they have both endured.
Hendrick and Gibbs: Rivals United by Tragedy and Respect
This year’s Championship 4 includes drivers Kyle Larson and William Byron from Hendrick Motorsports, and Denny Hamlin and Chase Briscoe from Joe Gibbs Racing, symbolizing the intensity of their teams’ rivalry. Off the racetrack, however, Rick Hendrick emphasized the deep friendship that exists between him and Joe Gibbs through the triumphs and heartbreaks that have marked their careers and personal lives.
In his recent comments, Hendrick shared the significance of their relationship, alluding to the unique challenges both men have faced.
“Joe and I have had some good times, and we’ve had some sad times together,” Hendrick said. “There’s nobody I respect any more than I do Joe Gibbs, and the great organization he’s put together. I admire the man for his strength and what he’s gone through. I lost a son. He’s lost both sons. We both had plans, and they kind of got shattered.
Rick Hendrick’s loss of his only son, Ricky Hendrick, in a 2004 plane crash on the way to a Martinsville, Virginia race still resonates within the NASCAR community. Similarly, Joe Gibbs experienced the loss of both his sons—one to a degenerative neurological condition in 2019 and another in 2022, the latter’s cause remaining undisclosed. Both sons were 49 at the time of their deaths, underscoring the personal tragedies that have built a bond between the two team owners.
Hendrick further reflected on how their shared experiences have fostered communication and camaraderie, even amidst fierce competition.
“We have a bond and a friendship that, no matter what happens on the track, we talk during the weeks,” Hendrick continued. “If I win two races, he’s on me, and I tell him, ‘Now you’ve won three of four, now it’s time to quit and let us have a chance.’ We want to win, but we have a tremendous respect for each other.”
Intense Rivalry on Track, Mutual Support Beyond
As the Championship 4 approaches, anticipation is mounting for a race that promises equally high levels of competition and respect between the two organizations. The 312-lap championship event is scheduled to air on Peacock on Sunday, November 2 at 3 pm ET, with live radio coverage available on MRN and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio. The race is expected not only to showcase the high-caliber skills of the drivers, including Denny Hamlin, Kyle Larson, William Byron, and Chase Briscoe, but also to highlight the intertwining of personal relationships and professional rivalries within NASCAR.
Rick Hendrick’s Perspective on Alex Bowman’s Struggles
Turning to another prominent story within his organization, Rick Hendrick addressed the rough season faced by Alex Bowman, the only Hendrick Motorsports driver not to advance past the Round of 16 this year. Despite not claiming a win since Chicago in July 2024, Bowman’s efforts and performance metrics have not gone unnoticed.
Bowman, who earns six top-five and sixteen top-ten finishes for the season, remains a hard charger according to Hendrick. The team continues pushing for improvement, an effort driven by recognition of Bowman’s commitment and talent. Hendrick pointed out where the pressures might be mounting for Bowman.
“I think they put a lot of pressure on themselves,” the NASCAR Hall of Famer pinpointed.“They had a good start on the year. There have been some tracks that Alex was our best car. That team is working hard on getting better everywhere.”
“I think they’re showing great signs. But you’re always going to have someone that’s following the rest of the group,” he added.
Bowman is secured under a contract extension that keeps him in the No. 48 Chevrolet Camaro until 2026. Since joining Hendrick Motorsports in 2018, he has accumulated eight cup race wins and has qualified for the playoffs in seven seasons, with a personal best of sixth place in the final standings in 2020. His continued presence is seen as an important asset to the team, even through periods of challenge.
The Road Ahead for Hendrick Motorsports and Joe Gibbs Racing
The upcoming championship event not only brings the Rick Hendrick NASCAR rivalry with Joe Gibbs to center stage but also showcases the resilience and deep connections among competitors in the sport. While the on-track battles are sure to be fierce, the enduring mutual respect between Hendrick and Gibbs, both survivors of personal loss and leaders of top-performing teams, remains a testament to NASCAR’s capacity for camaraderie amidst competition. Fans and analysts alike will watch closely as Hendrick Motorsports and Joe Gibbs Racing continue their pursuit of glory, set against the backdrop of shared history and lasting friendship.
