At Michigan International Speedway last Sunday, seasoned Joe Gibbs Racing driver Denny Hamlin earned his first victory after 700 races, marking his 57th career win. This accomplishment places him among the most successful racers in JGR history, bringing him closer to the celebrated milestone of 60 Cup wins. Hall of Famer Dale Earnhardt Jr. believes only two drivers currently on the circuit have the potential to reach that level.
The Two Drivers Earlham Jr. Sees as Potential 60-Win Contenders
Dale Earnhardt Jr. identified Joey Logano, a three-time NASCAR Cup Series champion, and Kyle Larson, the 2021 Cup champion, as the only contenders who might match Hamlin’s feat. However, both drivers presently have fewer than 40 wins, and according to Earnhardt Jr., reaching 60 victories depends heavily on their ability to stay with top-tier teams like Penske and Hendrick Motorsports, which consistently produce championship-caliber cars.
Logano is 35 years old and has 37 wins. Logano, in my opinion, is the only one that could probably get there. Larson could do it. The only thing is, is Larson and Joey have to stay in the Championship-winning cars to get to that number. That’s the problem.
Dale Earnhardt Jr. said via Dale Jr. Download.
Factors Behind Hamlin’s Success and Challenges for Logano and Larson
Hamlin’s longstanding partnership with Joe Gibbs Racing has been critical to his success, as he began and has sustained his racing career with the same team, providing continuity and competitive equipment. In contrast, both Logano and Larson spent significant parts of their careers with other organizations before securing their current rides. Logano experienced a tough period with JGR before proving himself at Penske, while Larson spent seven years with Chip Ganassi Racing prior to joining Rick Hendrick’s operation.
Another hurdle for Logano and Larson includes an influx of young competitors who are rapidly claiming victories. For either driver to reach or surpass the 60-win mark, they must remain the leading driver within their teams and continue competing in championship-contending cars for at least five to ten more years.
If something happens — there’s new drivers coming in, always the next best thing and the greatest guy — as long as you don’t become the B or the C driver at the great teams, as long as Joey and Larson are in Championship cars, which that sounds crazy to think they’ll never be but you just never know what might happen in five, 10 years.
Dale Earnhardt Jr. asserted.
Physical and Career Longevity Concerns Impact Prospects
Joey Logano is 37 years old and began racing professionally at age 19, which lessens the likelihood that he will continue for another decade due to the physical demands of the sport. For Larson, the uncertainty lies in his personal willingness to race for an extended period. Earnhardt Jr. acknowledges Larson might retire either early or much later in his career, leaving his future prospects open.
Larson might not want to race that long, you just don’t know. He might race till he’s 60, who knows? He might win 80 races.
Dale Earnhardt Jr. added.
Kyle Petty Expresses Skepticism Over Other Drivers Reaching 60 Cup Wins
Former NASCAR Cup driver Kyle Petty weighed in on the potential for racers besides Denny Hamlin to join the 60-plus win club. While acknowledging Logano and Larson as contenders, Petty highlighted the challenges of career longevity and incoming talent in limiting others from reaching this milestone.
Denny Hamlin’s going to get to 60 Cup wins. Don’t think we’re going to see another driver do it. I know everyone wants to talk Joey Logano. I know everybody wants to Kyle Larson, and there may be somebody that comes along years from now that gets close.
Kyle Petty said.
The Impact of Hamlin’s Career and What Lies Ahead for Logano and Larson
The acclaim for Denny Hamlin from both Dale Earnhardt Jr. and Kyle Petty highlights how well the JGR veteran has performed consistently over two decades. The contrasting views underscore the uncertainties surrounding Logano and Larson’s chances for reaching the iconic 60-win mark. Their future achievements will depend on several factors, including remaining with championship teams, staying healthily competitive, and navigating the influx of rising young talent. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if either driver fulfills these high expectations or if an emerging competitor breaks through to challenge these milestones.