Denny Hamlin on doubleheader races has stirred discussion in the motorsports world, as the Joe Gibbs Racing driver shared candid thoughts about recent IndyCar and NASCAR crossover weekends, especially after competing at Phoenix Raceway. Reflecting on his experience, Hamlin outlined both the benefits and challenges presented by combining two premier series at a single track and addressed broader issues in NASCAR.
Hamlin’s Doubleheader Experience at Phoenix Raceway
The recent motorsports doubleheader at Phoenix saw IndyCar and NASCAR Cup Series racing on the same weekend, providing fans with back-to-back high-profile events. Josef Newgarden captured the IndyCar victory with a high-action finish, while Ryan Blaney surged to win the Straight Talk Wireless 500, followed by strong performances from Christopher Bell, Kyle Larson, and Ty Gibbs. Denny Hamlin started the race from the 11th position and ultimately secured fifth place in the Cup competition.
Despite being part of such an energetic event, Hamlin revealed that his full schedule kept him from witnessing the IndyCar action in person. In a recent episode of the Actions Detrimental podcast, he described the unique atmosphere at the track and how the event structure affected spectator participation.
“I had an appearance during the IndyCar race and then I had to go back to the racetrack and do some work. I caught exactly zero laps of the IndyCar race, but the atmosphere was cool,” Denny Hamlin said (43:30 onwards).
Hamlin especially valued the novelty of seeing two major series sharing a venue, though he noted a surprising fan response.
“I really liked the feeling of two premier series being at the same track. … There were a lot of fans that left after the IndyCar race. I can’t believe they didn’t stay for the Xfinity race.”
Challenges for Fans and Drivers at Doubleheader Weekends
A key issue Hamlin addressed involved the comfort and expectations for fans attending these extensive doubleheader weekends. The Arizona heat during race days added to the difficulties for those in the grandstands, as enduring hours in direct sun proved to be a challenge for even the most passionate spectators.
“Asking me to sit in the stands for eight hours probably is a very, very tough ask,” Hamlin said.
Hamlin expressed some regret at not being able to experience the full breadth of the IndyCar event. He explained that, ideally, he would have liked to explore the grid, observe the pre-race activities, and closely look at the IndyCar vehicles, but his obligations kept him from these firsthand experiences.
Concerns Over Driver Qualification Standards in NASCAR
Beyond the excitement of doubleheader events, Denny Hamlin also discussed concerns regarding the approval process for new entrants into the NASCAR Cup Series. Using the example of Cleetus McFarland, who recently secured a three-race opportunity with Richard Childress Racing, Hamlin prompted NASCAR to consider stricter standards for driver approvals, emphasizing the importance of professionalism and safety in the top racing tiers.
“I think that our approval process should be more tough than what it is. I think that there’s a certain standards that we need to hold to ourselves. Certainly in the Cup series now. He hasn’t we haven’t gone there yet, but like is is this is that where this is going?” Denny Hamlin asked (47:30 onwards).
Hamlin referenced McFarland’s debut in the Truck Series at Daytona as concerning, highlighting the potential risks involved when less-experienced drivers compete at the highest levels. The crash during McFarland’s race resulted in several contenders being eliminated and raised questions about the balance between promotional value and competitive integrity.
“He is very humble when it comes to these opportunities that he’s that he’s getting. But I watched him in that truck race at Daytona and I’m I truthfully he was out of control.”
McFarland is next scheduled to race the No. 33 Chevrolet for Richard Childress Racing at Rockingham Speedway. His recent debut in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series ended prematurely after losing control and crashing out at Daytona, finishing 37th in the race.
What Denny Hamlin’s Perspective Means for NASCAR’s Future
Denny Hamlin’s reflections on doubleheader weekends and driver qualifications come at a pivotal moment for motorsports, as NASCAR and IndyCar look for innovative ways to attract fans while maintaining competitive standards. His mix of appreciation and criticism demonstrates both optimism for future event formats and concern for the sport’s ongoing integrity. The continued participation of experienced drivers like Christopher Bell, Ty Gibbs, and Kyle Larson highlights the competitive depth among the current roster, even as new names like Cleetus McFarland make headlines.
As NASCAR evaluates the impact of crossover events and the pathway for new entrants, insights from established competitors such as Hamlin and Ryan Blaney will likely inform future decisions on race scheduling and driver approval. For fans and drivers alike, the evolving landscape promises both excitement and challenges in seasons to come.
