In an unexpected turn of events at the Chicago street race, leading NASCAR drivers Denny Hamlin, Chase Elliott, and Kyle Larson will all be starting from the back of the field. The setbacks came during practice and qualifying sessions, forcing these top contenders to overcome significant obstacles on race day.
The Denny Hamlin Chicago race setback came early when his Toyota failed during practice, shutting down any chance of qualifying near the front. Meanwhile, Chase Elliott and Kyle Larson, both regarded as exceptional road course drivers, suffered damage to their cars that compromised their starting positions.
Denny Hamlin’s Engine Failure Ends Early Practice Run
Hamlin’s difficulties began immediately in Group 1 practice when his No. 11 Joe Gibbs Racing Toyota emitted smoke shortly after leaving the pit lane. An internal engine failure caused oil to spill on the course, leading to a spin but no collision with the wall. This mechanical issue forced Hamlin to end the session without attempting a timed lap.
This marks the latest episode in a frustrating pattern for Hamlin, who previously experienced engine-related DNFs at Texas and Kansas, including a startling car fire at Texas. Chicago has also proven challenging for him in previous years, including a pole start in 2023 that ended in a crash just two laps in and a more recent 30th-place finish in a rain-affected race.
With no practice laps completed this weekend, Hamlin must now start at the rear for Sunday’s 75-lap contest, adding pressure to an already difficult season.
Chase Elliott and Kyle Larson Face Damaging Incidents in Practice and Qualifying
Chase Elliott’s troubles emerged in Group 2 practice when he clipped the outside wall approaching Turn 4, damaging the left side of his No. 9 Hendrick Motorsports Chevy. This accident sidelined him from qualifying, forcing an unwanted start from the back.
Kyle Larson initially qualified 14th, but damage incurred during his attempt pushed his No. 5 car into repairs before the race, causing his team to surrender their qualified position. Larson will also begin the race from the rear, joining Hamlin and Elliott in their uphill battles.
Hendrick Motorsports Faces a Difficult Day Across All Drivers
Saturday proved troublesome not only for Elliott and Larson but for all four Hendrick Motorsports drivers. William Byron and Alex Bowman also incurred damage during their sessions, compounding the team’s challenges at Chicago.
Byron showed early promise in Group 1 practice, setting a fast lap time that topped the charts briefly. However, with limited time remaining, he lost control in Turn 10, hitting the outer wall and suffering suspension damage that will force him to drop to the back of the starting grid.
Bowman encountered similar difficulties in Group 2, hitting the wall and damaging his suspension despite posting the 11th-fastest qualifying time. His crew decided to repair the car fully, sacrificing his starting spot in favor of better performance and safety for the main event.
With all four Hendrick drivers relegated to the rear, the organization faces a steep climb in this competitive street race, where passing opportunities are limited and mistakes carry heavy consequences.
Upcoming Challenge: Navigating Chicago’s Tight Street Course
These setbacks place Denny Hamlin, Chase Elliott, Kyle Larson, William Byron, and Alex Bowman in difficult positions as they prepare to tackle the unforgiving Chicago street circuit. Starting from the back will test their skill, strategy, and patience over the 75-lap race, especially given the narrow track and high likelihood of cautions.
Hamlin, in particular, must shake off his recent mechanical woes and capitalize on his previous experience at Chicago to recover positions. Meanwhile, Hendrick Motorsports must rely on quick adjustments and aggressive yet calculated driving if they hope to salvage strong finishes from this challenging weekend.
The outcome in Chicago will significantly influence the playoff standings, highlighting the importance of resilience and adaptability when unexpected setbacks strike before a race even begins.
“His No. 11 JGR Toyota barely made it out of the pit lane when smoke started pouring from under the hood.” —Article Detail
“Chase Elliott… clipped the outside wall in the short chute between Turns 3 and 4.” —Article Detail
“Byron’s No. 24 Chevy lost grip and slapped the outside wall in Turn 10.” —Article Detail
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. How did Denny Hamlin get so rich?
A. Denny Hamlin started racing full-time in the Cup Series in 2006 with Joe Gibbs Racing. Since then, he has achieved a remarkable career with 51 Cup Series wins. He also won the Daytona 500 three times (in 2016, 2019, and 2020), earning millions during his career.
Q. Why did NASCAR penalize Denny Hamlin?
A. NASCAR gave an L2-level penalty to the No. 11 Joe Gibbs Racing team and driver Denny Hamlin. This penalty was for not following NASCAR’s engine inspection rules. The organization revealed this on Thursday, stating the team broke rules in Sections 14.7.
Q. How did Denny Hamlin get rich?
A. He has built an empire worth $65 million through career earnings, endorsements, team ownership, and real estate investments.
Hamlin’s wealth comes from several sources: he earns a lot from NASCAR race winnings and contracts. He has long-term sponsorship deals with companies like FedEx, Jordan Brand, and Toyota.
Q. Did Denny Hamlin lose 75 points for engine violation?
A. NASCAR announced on Thursday that Denny Hamlin and team owner Joe Gibbs received penalties. They lost 75 regular-season points and 10 playoff points. This is due to an engine seal violation after Hamlin won at Bristol in the spring.