Denny Hamlin has clarified his intentions regarding his 2026 racing plans, addressing speculation about his future with Joe Gibbs Racing after a heartbreaking end to the 2025 NASCAR Cup Series season. Speaking candidly amid recent discussions and lingering disappointment, Hamlin laid out his commitment to remain in competition next year while reflecting on personal and professional challenges.
Hamlin Affirms His Commitment to Racing with Joe Gibbs in 2026
After finishing the NASCAR Cup Series season just short of a championship, Denny Hamlin’s future became a topic of industry speculation. Two days following his dramatic loss at Phoenix Raceway, he hesitated to give a definitive answer about racing in 2026. However, during his first Actions Detrimental podcast appearance since the 2025 finale, host Jared Allen asked him directly if he would return next season.
Hamlin, having signed a two-year contract extension with Joe Gibbs Racing earlier in the year, asserted his intention to fulfill those obligations. He made it clear that despite the upset of losing out on a championship and his openness about the emotional toll, walking away ahead of schedule is not in the cards.
“Listen, I would have begged Joe to let me quit, had I won that race,”
— Denny Hamlin, Driver
“I would have. I would have just because it would have been the perfect way for me to go out. But they’re not ready for that yet.”
— Denny Hamlin, Driver
These remarks highlight that while Hamlin imagined an early, storybook retirement after a potential championship win, the team is focused on seeing him continue through the remainder of his contract, which stretches through the 2026 and 2027 seasons. The original timeline for his retirement remains intact, as announced previously.
The veteran driver also remarked on the finite nature of his NASCAR tenure and acknowledged the emotional wear and tear from the recent campaign. He indicated that, as planned, he expects to finish out his contract before seriously reconsidering retirement.
“We know what’s the lifeline left.”
— Denny Hamlin, Driver
Despite this resolve, Hamlin admitted he is in need of a temporary break from the demands of racing following the season’s conclusion. He was honest about needing to step away momentarily to recover emotionally before ramping up for the challenges ahead.
“I want nothing to do with racing, still, right now,”
— Denny Hamlin, Driver
“I’ve got to get some more time.”
— Denny Hamlin, Driver
The Aftermath of a Painful Championship Loss
Hamlin’s defeat at Phoenix was particularly crushing, as he had been a strong championship favorite after leading the majority of the race. His season ended with a bitter taste, compounded by the fact that he was racing with extra motivation for his father, Dennis, who is battling a terminal illness. Hamlin openly shared that his pursuit of a title was partly for his father’s sake, intending to provide a meaningful experience and memory.
Though Hamlin narrowly lost the championship to Kyle Larson in the waning laps due to a late caution, he recounted on his podcast how his father responded to the outcome. According to Hamlin, his father exhibited resilience and support even after the loss.
“He said to me, just like a lot of people say, ‘I don’t know what to say.’ He’s like, ‘You had it. You did it. You just don’t have the trophy.’”
— Dennis, Denny Hamlin’s Father
This emotional conversation was difficult for both father and son, with Hamlin noting the intensity of emotions surrounding the event. He also shared that a video exists of his father reacting to the final laps, but Hamlin has chosen not to watch it to protect his own emotional well-being, instead allowing his fiancée, Jordan Fish, to view it.
“There is a video from him watching the race,”
— Denny Hamlin, Driver
“And I’ve asked to not see it. Jordan (Hamlin’s fiancee, Jordan Fish) saw it. But I’ve told her I’d prefer not to.”
— Denny Hamlin, Driver
Looking Ahead: What Hamlin’s Choice Means for NASCAR
Denny Hamlin’s affirmation of his 2026 racing plans provides stability for Joe Gibbs Racing and the broader NASCAR Cup Series grid. With Hamlin positioned to continue as a leading competitor, fans and industry watchers can expect his continued impact on the sport, especially as he pursues an elusive championship in what could be his final seasons with the team. The persistence of Hamlin, coupled with the emotional backing of his family and long-time team owner Joe Gibbs, will shape storylines throughout the upcoming seasons.
For now, Hamlin is taking the time he needs to recover, but he remains a cornerstone for Joe Gibbs Racing and NASCAR, likely to return with renewed focus for the challenges that 2026 will bring. His decision also maintains continuity in the driver lineup and keeps the narrative of his championship quest alive as the paddock prepares for another competitive year.
Nothing but absolute pain for Denny Hamlin. pic.twitter.com/fcc25oGE2v
— Jeff Gluck (@jeff_gluck) November 2, 2025
.@dennyhamlin answers the question everyone's asking. ➡️📆
A new Actions Detrimental is out now wherever you get your podcasts. 🎙️
Apple: https://t.co/p4zeGwxZ0y
Spotify: https://t.co/craCjE05ml
YouTube: https://t.co/4f2Sj9DaQr pic.twitter.com/oXzOhujED5— Dirty Mo Media (@DirtyMoMedia) November 14, 2025
.@dennyhamlin discusses how his dad felt and his words for Denny after the race. 💯 pic.twitter.com/aUpxmyzMqk
— Dirty Mo Media (@DirtyMoMedia) November 14, 2025
