Denny Hamlin, the experienced driver from Joe Gibbs Racing, claimed his fourth win of the 2025 NASCAR season at Dover International Speedway on Sunday. This victory not only made him the season’s leading winner but also marked his second consecutive triumph at Dover, raising his career total to 58 wins—all under the Toyota banner—solidifying his standing as the winningest driver in Toyota’s history.
Race Challenges Overcome to Secure Victory Despite Early Incident
Hamlin’s race began with difficulty after an early collision involving Ty Dillon, which disrupted the field. Despite the setback, he managed to maintain pace alongside his teammate Christopher Bell. Following a one-hour rain delay, Hamlin fended off strong challenges from both Bell and another teammate, Chase Briscoe, during the closing laps to capture the win.
Reflecting on Personal Growth and Improvement at Dover Track
After the race, Hamlin shared that this win felt particularly meaningful due to past struggles at Dover early in his career. He explained how his performance had dipped previously at this venue but that he overcame those obstacles by studying the techniques of the sport’s best drivers competing at the track.
“Winning here in Dover is super special to me. This is a place I’ve not been very good at the first half of my career. Having a back-to-back here over the last few years is amazing. (On how he improved at Dover) I just studied some of the greats here.” —Denny Hamlin, via NBC Sports
Two key drivers who influenced Hamlin’s improvement at Dover were former teammate Martin Truex Jr., who retired after the previous season, and Toyota team owner and racer Jimmie Johnson. Competing alongside and observing their expertise helped Hamlin adapt his approach and maximize his car’s performance on the challenging track.
“I was very fortunate to have Martin Truex as a teammate. Jimmie Johnson, watching him win 10 times here. You learn from the greats and you change your game to match it, you have success like this.” —Denny Hamlin
Joe Gibbs Praises Hamlin’s Leadership and Season Performance
Joe Gibbs, owner of Joe Gibbs Racing and a three-time Super Bowl champion, praised Hamlin’s consistent success this season. With JGR drivers combining for eight wins so far, Hamlin’s leadership in the No. 11 car stands out. Gibbs lauded Hamlin’s dedication to excellence, especially as he continues to compete at a high level later in his career.
“I’ve got to tell you, he’s after it right now, I think that’s 58 for Denny. That’s great. At this point in his career, he is after it in the sim, working extremely hard. I just really appreciate him and his leadership with all of our other drivers, everybody in our competition meetings, really a big deal.” —Joe Gibbs, to SiriusXM NASCAR Radio
Gibbs expressed admiration not just for Hamlin but for the entire team’s ability to perform under challenging conditions. He looks forward to celebrating this latest triumph with Hamlin by unveiling the race-winning banner at their shop as part of their ongoing tradition.
“Just proud of everybody back home. God’s blessed us with a great group of teammates. I appreciate all of them so much. Going to hand a banner again tomorrow, and that’s a big deal for us.” —Joe Gibbs
Gibbs’ comments highlight his confidence in Hamlin’s ability to continue driving success for Joe Gibbs Racing. With 2025 shaping up as an exceptional year, many are hopeful that Hamlin will finally secure the championship trophy he has long pursued.
Significance of Hamlin’s Victory and Looking Ahead
Denny Hamlin’s performance at Dover demonstrates both his enduring skill and determination. His ability to rebound from early setbacks, adapt his strategy through observing legends like Truex Jr. and Johnson, and lead his team reflects a racer at the peak of his craft. This win not only extends Hamlin’s record within Toyota but also fuels expectations that the veteran driver may break new ground by claiming the season’s ultimate prize.
As the NASCAR season progresses, attention will remain on Hamlin and Joe Gibbs Racing to see if they can maintain their momentum and challenge for the Bill France Cup. The drive, focus, and teamwork visible at Dover signal that more memorable performances are likely ahead.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. How did Denny Hamlin get so rich?
A. Since he started racing full-time in the Cup Series in 2006 with Joe Gibbs Racing, Hamlin has had an impressive career. He has achieved 51 wins in the Cup Series and won the Daytona 500 three times (in 2016, 2019, and 2020). Over the years, he has also earned millions of dollars.
Q. Did Denny Hamlin and Jordan Fish get married?
A. Denny Hamlin is set to marry Jordan Fish. She loved dancing as a kid, which led her to join the NBA’s Charlotte Bobcats dance team. While performing at a Bobcats game, she met Hamlin. The team later changed its name to the Charlotte Hornets.
Q. How did Denny Hamlin get rich?
A. Denny Hamlin has a net worth of about $65 million, thanks to a successful racing career, lucrative endorsements, team ownership, and wise real estate investments.
Whether he’s driving in races or managing a team, Hamlin consistently makes smart decisions both on and off the track.
Q. How is Denny Hamlin so rich?
A. Here’s how Denny Hamlin built his $65 million net worth: He earned over $100 million from NASCAR contracts and race winnings. He also has multi-million dollar endorsements with companies like FedEx, Jordan Brand, and Toyota. Additionally, he co-owns 23XI Racing, a team now worth over $100 million.