Denny Hamlin’s hopes for a long-awaited NASCAR Cup Series title ended in disappointment at the close of the 2025 season, making him the longest-serving driver in the series without a championship. This latest Denny Hamlin NASCAR championship heartbreak drew reactions from fellow driver Carson Hocevar, as well as sparking conversation about what could have been for one of the sport’s most enduring competitors.
Hamlin’s Championship Hopes Dashed After Late Race Drama
Competing for Joe Gibbs Racing, Hamlin entered the season’s last race with momentum, starting from pole position and leading an impressive 208 out of 319 laps at Phoenix. However, his run unraveled after a late caution caused by William Byron’s crash, prompting Hamlin to pit for four new tires and restart in ninth. Meanwhile, Kyle Larson, who started fifth on the final restart and had not led any laps, seized a third-place finish—outpacing all other championship contenders and securing another title.
Hamlin, originally from Tampa, Florida, was left visibly shaken after the result. Despite his strong performance, the change in fortune served as another reminder of how elusive the championship title has been for him throughout his career. Frustration replaced optimism as Hamlin’s hard work went unrewarded.
Hocevar Reflects on Larson’s Victory and Hamlin’s Misfortune
Carson Hocevar, who had just completed his second season in the Cup Series, shared his perspective on the outcome and its implications during a conversation with Express US Sports. Praising the alliance between Hendrick Motorsports and Spire Motorsports, Hocevar viewed Larson’s championship as a win for both organizations and their shared manufacturer.
“For me, myself and our team, obviously, it’s good for Hendrick to win, Chevy to win and everything.”
– Carson Hocevar, Cup Series Driver
Beyond personal interest, Hocevar considered Hamlin’s defeat significant for NASCAR’s broader narrative and appeal. He noted the impact of high-stakes finishes and heartbreaks on fan engagement, implying that drama like this benefits the sport.
“I think for the sport’s sake, it’s important to have close finishes. And at times, heartbreaks can drive ratings or make people hungrier and excited to watch.”
– Carson Hocevar, Cup Series Driver
Hamlin’s Emotional Response and Offseason Reflection
Following the frustrating finish, Hamlin addressed his mindset during the NASCAR Awards festivities. Despite being contracted to continue racing for Joe Gibbs Racing through 2026, his words made clear the emotional toll of another missed opportunity, as he was not ready to think about driving or competing in the moment.
“I have a contract to (race), but at this point, there’s just absolutely no way that I would even — I don’t even think about a race car right now. I’m going to need some time on this one.”
– Denny Hamlin, Joe Gibbs Racing Driver
“The good news is the banquet is two weeks earlier, so the offseason is a little bit longer. But I’ll get over it. It’s just going to take a minute,”
he added. – Denny Hamlin, Joe Gibbs Racing Driver
Now in his offseason, Hamlin is now looking ahead to the non-points Cook Out Clash at Bowman Gray Stadium on February 1, 2026. Although the event does not affect championship standings, a strong result there could set the tone for the Daytona 500—which begins the new points season on February 15.
Retirement Would Have Been the Perfect Ending, Says Hamlin
On his own podcast, Actions Detrimental, Hamlin disclosed how capturing the championship would have prompted a different career decision. Even with his ongoing contract, he admitted the emotional high of winning would have been the ideal conclusion to his long run in NASCAR.
“I would’ve begged Joe to let me quit had I won that race,”
Denny Hamlin explained.
“It would have just been the perfect way for me to go out. But they’re not ready for that yet. They have to have time to work on my succession plan.”
– Denny Hamlin, Joe Gibbs Racing Driver
Despite delivering one of the most dominant performances of his career in Phoenix, Hamlin was left contemplating what might have been, had the cards fallen his way.
What Lies Ahead for Hamlin and the NASCAR Field
Attention now turns to the 2026 Cook Out Clash at Bowman Gray Stadium, an event Hamlin has conquered four times before. Fans can watch the race on FOX at 8 pm Eastern, with radio coverage from MRN and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio. While the sting of the Denny Hamlin NASCAR championship heartbreak still lingers, victory at the Clash and a successful start to the regular season could give Hamlin, Joe Gibbs Racing, and their fans renewed hope for the future. As the offseason unfolds, the sport’s passionate followers and Hamlin’s rivals alike will be watching to see if the veteran can finally break through and capture an elusive championship next year.
