Denny Hamlin recently opened up about his evolving perspective toward Carl Edwards, highlighting a personal growth in admiration for the former racing star. While discussing his NASCAR journey and upcoming seasons, Hamlin addressed the contrast between his own career choices and Edwards’ abrupt departure from professional racing, placing the topic of Denny Hamlin NASCAR admiration at the center of the conversation.
After what seemed like a possible early exit from the sport, Hamlin confirmed he would keep racing through at least 2027. He and Carl Edwards, who were once teammates, have never developed a deep friendship, remaining somewhat distant even while sharing a garage. Their interactions were mostly limited to mandatory team meetings, with little overlap outside the track.
Actions Detrimental Podcast Unveils Rare Insights
On his Actions Detrimental podcast, Denny Hamlin shared how his relationship with Carl Edwards has shifted. He addressed the emotional complexity that comes with being both beneficiaries and victims of NASCAR’s system, likening their career paths in terms of pivotal moments and possible regrets. Edwards’ decision to retire while still at the peak of his racing abilities surprised many, including Hamlin, especially since their professional journeys had run in parallel for so many years.
I certainly got more of a personal understanding and certainly admiration for Carl Edwards here lately,
Denny Hamlin, NASCAR Driver
Hamlin emphasized that although the two weren’t close, observing Edwards’ choices and demeanor over time has changed his view. Interviews and recent experiences—including joint media production events and casual post-race encounters—have led Hamlin to regard Edwards much more highly than before.
Comparisons with Other Greats Influence Hamlin’s View
When asked about his racing inspirations, Hamlin has often cited Jimmie Johnson as a primary figure. However, his respect for Carl Edwards has climbed rapidly in recent conversations. He acknowledged that while Johnson’s pro-wrestling success both on and off track remains unparalleled for him, Edwards is now “shooting up that list hard.” These candid admissions reveal an emotional turbulence as Hamlin continues to reassess the careers and legacies of his peers.
Clarifying the Nature of Their Recent Conversations
Hamlin addressed some misconceptions about his recent interactions with Edwards, taking the opportunity to clarify how their post-race contact was portrayed in the media.
Just simply because, as I’ve gotten to know him through interviews that we’ve had, we had one sit-down kind of at Pocono. We’ve had production things where we’ve had interactions, you know, post-race. I think it was a little bit misreported that like I called Carl after the race. That is not correct. I don’t want Carl to think that I’m some liar who is telling the media that for sympathy, that’s not true. We exchanged messages, and we did talk, but I didn’t specifically reach out to Carl. I think that was a little bit of a misrepresentation. But I had some good conversations with him.
Denny Hamlin, NASCAR Driver
This statement shows Hamlin’s concern for authenticity in how their relationship is perceived. He wanted to make clear that while respectful exchanges occurred between them, some reports of direct communication were inaccurate. Instead, their connection strengthened through shared media duties and respectful dialogue rather than any dramatic overture.
Experience, Losses, and What’s Ahead
Both Hamlin and Edwards have experienced tough moments within NASCAR’s unpredictable championship system, encountering both heartbreak and reward. Edwards’ physical fitness and relative youth at retirement have sparked lingering “what if” questions—what might have happened if he’d continued racing for another decade? While Hamlin could have followed in Edwards’ footsteps after Phoenix, he is choosing to stay on and compete.
Their stories represent two different responses to similar setbacks. Hamlin’s decision to keep fighting for victories, despite setbacks and disappointments, contrasts with Edwards’ sudden exit. This emotional divergence adds depth to the sense of mutual, if belated, respect.
The Broader Impact on NASCAR’s Community
As both drivers reflect on their paths, their choices highlight the pressures and unpredictable nature of the sport. For many in NASCAR, seeing Denny Hamlin openly discuss his evolving Denny Hamlin NASCAR admiration for fellow competitors like Carl Edwards—despite past distance or competitive rivalry—signals a growing maturity and understanding in the veteran driver.
Going forward, Hamlin’s openness about these dynamics could foster greater empathy and camaraderie within the sport. Fans, media, and drivers alike may take note of how honest reflection can bridge old divides and elevate respect for those who made difficult, personal decisions regarding their careers and lives away from the racetrack.
