Denny Hamlin, who has spent his entire Cup Series career with Joe Gibbs Racing, has recently reflected on his possible retirement from full-time competition if he secures his first Cup Series championship at Phoenix. The discussion about Denny Hamlin NASCAR future surfaced as he weighed the prospect of stepping away while atop the sport, considering both personal satisfaction and his deep commitment to his current team.
During an interview with Motor Racing Network’s Dave Moody on SiriusXM NASCAR Radio, Hamlin, now in his 20th full-time season, was asked whether winning the championship would provide a “mic drop” moment and a perfect exit. Despite acknowledging that it could be an ideal send-off personally, Hamlin admitted his loyalty to Joe Gibbs Racing discourages a hasty retirement announcement, as the team may not yet have a succession plan in place.
Hamlin Outlines Loyalty to Joe Gibbs Racing
Currently, Hamlin’s contract with Joe Gibbs Racing extends through the 2027 season, reflecting a long-standing commitment to the organization he has raced for since debuting in the Cup Series. As the team prepares for an uncertain future without their veteran driver, Hamlin emphasized the significance of not leaving JGR in a difficult situation.
“It would be the perfect scenario for me personally but I have to keep into account that I don’t know that JGR has an alternative plan right now and in place. I think they’re working on the plan for when I’m not here and right now it’s after a couple years but I’m too loyal to JGR to put them in a bad spot but certainly for me I would be content with that,”
Denny Hamlin said (0:28 onwards)
These remarks underscore Hamlin’s mixed emotions regarding his retirement. While personally ready for the possibility of a championship farewell, his focus remains on ensuring a smooth transition for his team and honoring the contract he holds with JGR.
Pole Position Sets Stage for Championship Battle at Phoenix
As the season finale approaches at Phoenix Raceway, Hamlin holds the pole position after qualifying with a time of 26.914 seconds, giving him a crucial starting advantage. Seeking both his first championship and the first Cup Series title for Joe Gibbs Racing since Kyle Busch’s 2019 win, Hamlin faces fierce competition from Hendrick Motorsports’ drivers William Byron and Kyle Larson, as well as his JGR teammate Chase Briscoe.
Notably, Hamlin enters the final race after a strong season boasting six wins—an achievement unmatched by his peers in 2025. Victories at Martinsville, Darlington, Michigan, Dover, World Wide Technology Raceway, and Las Vegas have solidified his status as a top driver this year. He clinched his spot in the Championship 4 with his milestone 60th career win, earned at Las Vegas.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Hamlin and JGR?
Hamlin’s considerations about stepping away from full-time racing remain intertwined with the future strategies of Joe Gibbs Racing. His uncertainties reflect both a desire to leave on a high note and a reluctance to disrupt a team to which he feels a strong allegiance. As the racing community looks toward the outcome of the Phoenix race, speculation about Denny Hamlin NASCAR future continues to build.
The significance of Hamlin’s decision is felt across NASCAR, with the potential to reshape the Joe Gibbs Racing lineup and impact the broader driver market. For now, as he leads the field into the season’s climactic race, all eyes are on Hamlin to see whether a championship win will prompt an emotional farewell or inspire him to continue pursuing further success in the Cup Series.
Could @dennyhamlin win the title, do a mic drop and retire from full-time racing with JGR?
🤷🏼 "It would be the perfect scenario for me […] I'm too loyal to JGR to put them in a bad spot. But certainly for me, I would be content with that."
More → https://t.co/ED6AWYsft9 pic.twitter.com/lEti6dlyKG
— SiriusXM NASCAR Radio (Ch. 90) (@SiriusXMNASCAR) November 1, 2025
