Denny Hamlin endured a devastating end to his NASCAR Cup Series championship hopes at Phoenix Raceway, suffering another Denny Hamlin championship heartbreak just laps from victory. In an emotional scene, Hamlin’s family consoled him trackside as his quest for a long-awaited title slipped away under dramatic circumstances.
Family’s Emotional Response to the Loss
Eight-year-old Molly Hamlin broke down in tears in Avondale, Arizona, joined by her older sister Taylor, moments after the finish. The pain was evident for Hamlin’s daughters, underscoring how deeply this loss cut into the family. With his father Dennis terminally ill and unable to attend, Hamlin realized this race could be his final shot to capture a championship while his father was still alive.
Hamlin’s journey in racing began with the support and sacrifice of his father, Dennis, who introduced him to the sport when he was just five. Throughout Hamlin’s formative years, Dennis supported his son’s racing dreams, even when the financial burden nearly jeopardized the family home. It was this unwavering support that propelled Hamlin through the ranks to join Joe Gibbs Racing, the only Cup team he’s driven for since 2005.
Recent Milestones and Rising Stakes
Just three weeks earlier, Hamlin celebrated his 60th Cup Series victory at Las Vegas, a personal milestone, and made a point to greet his father during a post-race interview. Before Sunday’s final showdown, asked on NBC by Jeff Burton about the significance of a title for his family and team owner Joe Gibbs, Hamlin became visibly emotional.
“It’s hard …” Hamlin said his voice quivering.
“I’m trying. I’m trying my best”
— Denny Hamlin, NASCAR Driver
Despite the mounting pressure, Hamlin composed himself before the race started, seemingly ready to seize his opportunity.
Dominance on Track Shattered by Late-Race Drama
Taking command of nearly two-thirds of the laps, Hamlin appeared on the verge of finally clinching the Cup Series crown. As the laps wound down, championship rival Kyle Larson admitted his own anticipation, which quickly shifted with a sudden twist in the race’s closing moments.
“I was going to be happy for him to win. That’s kind of what I was thinking about, like, man, I can’t wait to go tell him ‘Good job.’”
— Kyle Larson, Driver & Competitor
“Then the caution came out and the script flipped.”
— Kyle Larson, Driver & Competitor
A flat tire for William Byron caused a caution just three laps from the finish, forcing the race into overtime and upending Hamlin’s swift run to the title. When Byron encountered Hamlin after the race, he simply placed a hand on Hamlin’s shoulder and said, “Sorry, man.” Hamlin replied with acceptance, raising his hands and stating, “It happens.”
Strategic Decisions Define the Outcome
During the final caution, three cars stayed on track while others, including race winner Ryan Blaney and Larson, opted for two tires. Hamlin’s team took four tires, restarting ninth for the overtime finish. This decision dropped him out of immediate contention despite his earlier dominance. Larson, who had overcome being a lap down due to a flat, ultimately finished third and captured his second Cup title. Hamlin crossed the line sixth, once again seeing his championship hopes dashed.
“I really don’t have much for emotion right now,”
Hamlin later said.
“Just numb about it because just in shock.”
— Denny Hamlin, NASCAR Driver
Past Setbacks Haunt Championship Push
This wasn’t Hamlin’s first heartbreak in the NASCAR postseason. Sunday’s caution ignited memories of the 2014 season finale at Homestead, where late-race yellows denied him and allowed Kevin Harvick to claim the championship. In 2021, on the same Phoenix track, a late caution saw Martin Truex Jr. lose the lead on pit road, while Larson won by benefiting from prime pit position. These high-stakes disappointments have marked Hamlin’s pursuit of a Cup title.
Mechanical and strategic mishaps have also played a role. In 2019, a piece of duct tape caused engine overheating at Homestead, costing him the championship. A malfunctioning roof hatch in 2015 at Talladega and carburetor issues at Phoenix in 2010 further thwarted his title ambitions.
Support and Sympathy from Peers
Kyle Larson, reflecting on Hamlin’s journey, expressed empathy for his friend and competitor.
“It does feel a little awkward because he has put so much time and energy, has been so close to winning so many championships,”
Larson said of Hamlin.
“This is as close as he’s ever been. Sure he’s a competitor, but he is a friend.”
— Kyle Larson, Driver & Friend
For those closest to Hamlin, the pain was unmistakable. As his daughters wept, Hamlin comforted them with a perspective gained through repeated heartbreak.
“You know, certainly unfortunate circumstances. One of those life lessons years down the road.”
— Denny Hamlin, NASCAR Driver
Looking Forward After Crushing Defeat
Though devastated, Hamlin maintained composure and sought to impart resilience to his family. He acknowledged that some outcomes are beyond anyone’s control, referencing the profound disappointment but also the lessons to be taken from the loss. As Hamlin prepares to explain this near-miss to his ailing father, his simple message remains: he did the best he could. The future remains uncertain for Hamlin’s championship hopes, but he remains a central figure in NASCAR’s evolving narrative, with supporters and rivals alike recognizing the weight of his latest Denny Hamlin championship heartbreak.
