At 44 years old, Denny Hamlin remains the oldest active driver in the NASCAR Cup Series, yet he continues to demonstrate that age has not diminished his ability to compete. As a three-time Daytona 500 winner, Hamlin is still pursuing his first Cup Series championship and remains a formidable presence as the 2025 playoffs approach. His partnership with basketball legend Michael Jordan, co-owner of 23XI Racing, highlights a shared competitive spirit, though Hamlin notes that Jordan’s intensity has softened over time.
Formerly known for his relentless drive on the basketball court, Michael Jordan was once one of the fiercest competitors in sports history. Hamlin explains that since Jordan’s retirement, he has observed a notable change in the basketball icon’s approach to competition, despite flashes of his old fire staying present, particularly during casual moments like golf outings.
From Fierce Athlete to More Reflective Competitor
During his NBA career, Jordan was notorious for his formidable on-court presence, often compared to Dale Earnhardt Sr.’s intimidating reputation in NASCAR. His confrontations with teammates and rivals, including Steve Kerr, Magic Johnson, and David Robinson, showcased his refusal to back down from any challenge. Hamlin shares a similarly competitive nature, naturally inviting comparisons between the two co-owners.
In an interview on Dale Earnhardt Jr.’s podcast, Hamlin highlighted that since Jordan’s retirement, his competitive edge has evolved. He stated that Jordan now prioritizes family life and personal relationships, which has tempered the intensity that famously defined his playing days.
I never had known Michael Jordan during that most intense time of his career. I know him as retired Michael. I know him as family Michael. I know him as my golfing buddy, Michael. So, it’s a little bit different. Um, yeah, he still trash talks quite a bit when we go play golf, but so do I.
—Denny Hamlin, NASCAR driver and 23XI Racing co-owner
Jordan and Hamlin’s Fight Beyond the Track
Although Jordan’s on-court ferocity has softened, Hamlin emphasizes that the basketball legend has not lost his willingness to stand firm when it matters. This was evident last year when Jordan and Hamlin took on NASCAR in a legal dispute over the sanctioning body’s latest charter agreement. This court battle has captured significant attention within the sport, highlighting the determination of 23XI Racing to defend its position.
Recently, the team competed as an open charter at Dover, a situation reflecting the ongoing tension between the team and NASCAR. Despite these challenges, both Hamlin and Jordan remain optimistic about the outcome of the legal proceedings and the future of their racing partnership.
Looking Ahead: The Impact of a Legendary Partnership
The evolving dynamic between Denny Hamlin and Michael Jordan illustrates how competitiveness can transform with time and life changes. While Jordan’s fiercest competitive edge has softened since retirement, his passion for competition and success is still very much alive through his involvement with 23XI Racing. Their collaboration continues to influence NASCAR, bringing greater visibility and excitement to the sport.
As Hamlin continues to chase his elusive championship dream, the combined experience and competitive spirit of this partnership leave a lasting mark on both motorsports and basketball fans alike, reminding all that determination takes many forms.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. How did Denny Hamlin get so rich?
A. Denny Hamlin began racing full-time in the Cup Series in 2006 with Joe Gibbs Racing. Over the years, he has achieved an impressive career with 51 Cup Series wins. He also won the Daytona 500 three times—in 2016, 2019, and 2020—and has earned millions from his success.
Q. Did Denny Hamlin and Jordan Fish get married?
A. Denny Hamlin and Jordan Fish are engaged. They didn’t have a great first meeting, but their second meet-up went better, and they started dating in 2007. Despite facing some tough times, they have stayed very close.
Q. How is Denny Hamlin so rich?
A. Denny Hamlin’s $65 million net worth comes from over $100 million he earned in NASCAR through contracts and prizes. He also has lucrative endorsement deals with companies like FedEx, Jordan Brand, and Toyota. Additionally, he co-owns 23XI Racing, a team now worth more than $100 million.
Q. Are Michael Jordan and Denny Hamlin friends?
A. Michael Jordan, part-owner of NASCAR’s 23XI Racing team, applauded his teammate Denny Hamlin. Hamlin secured his second Cup Series win this season at Darlington. Jordan admired Hamlin’s competitive nature and told critics, “If you boo him, it only makes him stronger.”