Denny Hamlin, known for his candid opinions within the NASCAR Cup Series, recently emphasized the importance of the regular season championship as a more accurate measure of a driver’s consistency. Speaking from his dual perspective as both a competitor and a 23XI Racing co-owner, Hamlin pointed to how the regular season title reflects sustained performance across many races, unlike the unpredictable nature of the playoffs.
Hamlin explained that the regular season standings offer a fairer assessment since they are not influenced by surprise winners or late-season upsets.
“There’s been no flukes, been no accidental winners. It’s the biggest sample size we have in the sport, so that’s why I think it’s the most legitimate,”
he said, underscoring his belief that the regular season crown is the best indicator of who performed consistently well throughout the year.
Subtext: Hamlin’s Comments Implicitly Question Joey Logano’s Championship Run
Though Hamlin did not name names, his remarks appear to address the controversy surrounding Joey Logano’s 2022 championship. Logano’s path to the title involved key moments such as Alex Bowman’s disqualification at the Roval, which facilitated Logano’s advance in the playoffs, as well as a slow start to the season that brought his consistency into question.
These circumstances fueled debate over NASCAR’s playoff system and whether it properly rewards season-long performance or rather allows for late-season momentum to overshadow early struggles. Hamlin’s emphasis on the regular season title as “the biggest sample size” seems to highlight the gap between consistent results and the playoff-driven championship outcome that Logano secured.
Hamlin Balances Ambition with Family Priorities Ahead of 2025 Season
Apart from discussing championships, Hamlin also reflected on his personal priorities after missing the Mexico City race to be with his fiancée Jordan Fish for the birth of their third child. He shared his perspective on the significance of the regular season title, saying,
“It’s an accomplishment we all would like to have. Obviously, it didn’t take precedence over the birth of my son. If the regular season was all I cared about, I wouldn’t have missed that race. But family has changed my priorities a little bit on that.”
Hamlin’s thoughtful remarks reveal how his goals are evolving as he balances his role as a top driver with commitments off the track. Having already secured four wins this season, he looks poised for a strong postseason push while maintaining his dedication to family life.
The Implications of Hamlin’s Viewpoint on NASCAR’s Championship Structure
Hamlin’s stance underscores an ongoing conversation in NASCAR about how championships should be decided. By elevating the regular season title’s legitimacy, he challenges the current playoff format that can sometimes reward drivers who peak late or benefit from unforeseen circumstances. This perspective may contribute to future discussions on refining the championship system to better acknowledge consistent excellence throughout the entirety of the season.
As the 2025 season approaches, many will watch whether Hamlin’s blend of competitive drive and personal priorities will culminate in finally securing the coveted NASCAR Cup Series championship, which has eluded him despite his sustained success.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. How did Denny Hamlin get so rich?
A. Starting his full-time Cup Series career in 2006 with Joe Gibbs Racing, Hamlin has become a racing legend. He has achieved 51 Cup Series wins, triumphed at the Daytona 500 three times (2016, 2019, 2020), and amassed significant earnings throughout his career.
Q. Did Denny Hamlin and Jordan Fish get married?
A. Denny Hamlin is set to marry Jordan Fish. As a child, she loved to dance and this passion led her to perform for the NBA’s Charlotte Bobcats, which are now called the Charlotte Hornets. Jordan and Denny first met while she was performing at one of these Bobcats games.
Q. How did Denny Hamlin get rich?
A. Denny Hamlin is valued at about $65 million, due to his racing success, endorsement deals, team ownership, and smart real estate choices. He keeps excelling, both while racing and managing his team.
Q. How is Denny Hamlin so rich?
A. Denny Hamlin has built a net worth of $65 million through his successful NASCAR career. He has earned over $100 million from racing contracts and winnings. Major companies like FedEx, Jordan Brand, and Toyota sponsor him with multi-million dollar endorsements. Additionally, he co-owns 23XI Racing, a team now worth more than $100 million.