Corey Heim, a rising star from TRICON Garage, is steadily making his mark in NASCAR, and 23XI Racing’s co-owner Denny Hamlin has affirmed that Heim’s long-term future lies with the team. Despite the challenge of limited car slots at 23XI Racing, Hamlin expressed strong confidence in Heim’s potential to succeed at the highest level.

Heim recently made his fourth NASCAR Cup Series start at Kansas, where he recorded a top-15 finish, signaling his readiness to compete regularly in the Cup division. Hamlin emphasized to The Athletic that Heim’s development is progressing well, and the team fully intends to keep him involved with 23XI Racing for years to come.

Denny Hamlin’s Commitment to Corey Heim’s Career at 23XI Racing

Corey Heim has demonstrated impressive talent throughout his NASCAR career, winning 15 Truck Series races in 75 outings and consistently competing for championships. Hamlin is convinced Heim is prepared to become a fixture in the Cup Series, praising the driver’s dedication both on and off the track. Heim is working hard multiple days each week to improve his skills and patiently await the right opportunity to shine at the top level.

He’s going to be a Sunday Cup guy. There’s no doubt in my mind about it. He’s going to be with 23XI for the long haul. (Heim is) doing everything (he’s been) asked to. He’s in the building multiple times per week, working on his craft, continuing to get better, waiting on the opportunity.
—Denny Hamlin, Co-owner 23XI Racing

Despite the limited number of car slots—23XI Racing currently fields three cars, each associated with a charter—Hamlin confirmed Heim understands and accepts the current circumstances. While the team cannot immediately offer Heim a full-time ride, they have set a development path for him that promises a long-term role with the organization.

And he knows he’s got a long-term future with 23XI Racing, and he’s happy with that. And he’s happy with the development process that we have set out for him in the future… But, ultimately, there’s only three cars, three charters that we’re allowed to have, and so we have to figure out in the future where we go with that.
—Denny Hamlin, Co-owner 23XI Racing

Currently, the three full-time 23XI Racing spots are occupied by Tyler Reddick, Bubba Wallace, and Riley Herbst. Reddick is viewed as the team’s leading championship hopeful, while Wallace remains a key figure both on and off the track, contributing significantly to the team’s brand presence. Herbst is seen as the most flexible in terms of seat availability, but his strong sponsorship backing makes any changes complex.

Context on Hamlin’s Personal Career and Contract Negotiations

Denny Hamlin is simultaneously working on extending his contract with Joe Gibbs Racing beyond the 2025 season, which marks the end of his current deal. The ongoing negotiations appear positive, with both sides showing a strong desire to continue their long-standing partnership. Hamlin recently spoke about the progress toward finalizing a new agreement and indicated that the announcement should come soon.

Working on it… Should be something done somewhat soon.
—Denny Hamlin, Joe Gibbs Racing Driver

Securing Hamlin’s future with Joe Gibbs Racing is pivotal, as it will allow him the flexibility to focus on building 23XI Racing and nurturing young talents like Heim. It also means Hamlin can plan to keep his own team’s seat open for emerging drivers rather than needing it for himself in his career’s latter stages.

Challenges and Opportunities Ahead for 23XI Racing

Balancing the existing driver lineup with developing newcomers like Heim remains a delicate task for 23XI Racing. The team’s three charters limit the number of full-time cars they can field in the Cup Series, which creates competition for available seats. However, Hamlin’s focus on long-term planning and driver development highlights the organization’s vision beyond immediate lineups.

Corey Heim’s journey reflects this approach; while he may not have a permanent Cup seat yet, Hamlin and 23XI Racing are committed to his growth. This development path ensures that when the opportunity arises—whether through sponsorship changes, expansion, or other moves—Heim will be well-positioned to step into a competitive ride. The team’s dedication to nurturing talent while maintaining a strong core of established drivers sets a foundation for sustained success.

The Significance of Corey Heim’s Role for 23XI Racing’s Future

Corey Heim’s promising trajectory, paired with Denny Hamlin’s belief in his long-term value, underscores 23XI Racing’s strategy of blending experienced performers with emerging talent. This blend is crucial for the team to remain competitive in NASCAR’s elite division. Heim’s patience and continued preparation position him as a key asset for the organization as it looks to expand and evolve.

As 23XI Racing navigates the constraints of car charters and driver contracts, the confirmation of Corey Heim’s long-term future offers fans and stakeholders assurance that the team prioritizes lasting growth. His progress, combined with Hamlin’s veteran leadership and strategic planning, sets the stage for both immediate competitiveness and future innovation.