Denny Hamlin, a veteran driver for Joe Gibbs Racing, has given his candid perspective on NASCAR’s latest move to bring back the Chase format. In his assessment, Hamlin argued that the revamped structure primarily rewards consistent frontrunners, drastically reducing chances for unexpected ‘wildcard’ entries to break through late in the season, placing a renewed focus on the Denny Hamlin Chase format opinion.
After an extended debate over how best to crown a champion, NASCAR decided to once again embrace a system resembling ‘The Chase.’ Hamlin has long criticized playoff structures and the pressure of a single-race championship showdown. He pointed out that television networks, particularly NBC, played a significant role in shaping the current system, which blends year-long consistency with the drama of playoffs. Under this revised format, individual wins matter more, awarding a 15-point bump compared to previous systems.
During a conversation with PRN, Hamlin detailed how the Chase is expected to play out for teams and drivers. He stated,
“I don’t think you’ll see any crazy wild cards go on runs in the final ten. If you couldn’t go on a run in 26 races, you’re not going to go on a run more likely in the final ten. So I think it really benefits four or five teams and others. It at least allows them to kind of move, slide up and down the standings as as they perform, there are no eliminations. They’ll just happen organically and naturally, and we’re going to be talking about the guys that are upfront each and every week.”
– Denny Hamlin, NASCAR Driver
Hamlin further described the renewed system’s championship outcome, saying,
“It’s going to be better. I still think the champion will be crowned at Homestead as you know, people want it to be. But if they lock into a championship before that. I mean that clearly means they were head and shoulders above everyone else and deserve it,” he added.
– Denny Hamlin, NASCAR Driver
Format Changes Would Not Have Altered 2025 Cup Series Outcome
Despite his standout performance in the 2025 Cup Series finale at Phoenix, Hamlin missed out on the championship, ultimately losing to Kyle Larson due to a strategic misstep. According to the current Chase system, even if changes had been implemented last year, Larson’s steady accumulation of points would have secured him the title regardless, demonstrating how the emphasis on consistency shapes championship outcomes in the new era.
Denny Hamlin Backed as Title Contender for 2026
Looking to the future, Denny Hamlin remains contracted with Joe Gibbs Racing for two more years, keeping his championship hopes alive. Over a two-decade career, Hamlin has frequently been in the mix for major honors, most recently achieving the distinction of being the winningest driver last season with six race victories, and moving into tenth place on NASCAR’s all-time wins list. Observers note that Hamlin’s form shows no signs of decline, marking him as a leading figure among current frontrunners.
Responding to fan interest about the upcoming season’s favorites, commentator Kenny Wallace offered a clear endorsement:
“Let’s go with @dennyhamlin ❤️”
– Kenny Wallace, NASCAR Commentator
Further fueling discussion, IndyCar competitor Alexander Rossi speculated that Hamlin might consider retiring as soon as he achieves a long-awaited championship, possibly even before the end of the season, highlighting the high stakes and personal significance the title holds for the veteran driver.
NASCAR’s Competitive Landscape Poised for New Dynamics
With the Chase structure returning, NASCAR’s approach to determining its champion has shifted once more, centering not just on trophies won but on steady excellence through both the regular season and playoffs. Broadcast partners like NBC will continue to influence the sport’s direction, while drivers such as Denny Hamlin and Kyle Larson remain in the spotlight. As anticipation for the next season builds, attention will likely remain fixed on Hamlin’s performance and whether the format change will finally bring the elusive championship to one of NASCAR’s most driven competitors.
"From a pure standpoint, it's better." @dennyhamlin weighs in on NASCAR's return to The Chase ⚖️ pic.twitter.com/YLgcStIWAd
— PRN (@PRNlive) January 22, 2026
