As the NASCAR playoffs approach, Denny Hamlin has expressed support for modifying the playoff format to extend the championship round beyond a single race. Hamlin believes that expanding this final stage would better determine the most deserving champion while increasing excitement for fans and host cities.
Hamlin Advocates Extending Championship Format Beyond Final Race
Currently, NASCAR’s playoff system narrows the field through several elimination rounds before the last four drivers compete in a single championship event. Hamlin proposes carrying the multi-round elimination format into the championship itself to reward consistent performance over a larger sample of races. He shared his reasoning during an appearance on the Dale Jr. Download podcast.
I think that that would reward the better champion,
Hamlin explained.
Not that there’s been a champion that’s not been deserving, but it’s certainly the bigger the sample size that you give it’s going to be more indicative of your top drivers that perform week in, week out like you talk about. Not just one particular week.
—Denny Hamlin, NASCAR Driver
Despite being a frequent playoff participant, Hamlin is still pursuing his first NASCAR Cup Series title, having finished second in 2010. He sees the expansion as beneficial for drivers like himself who demonstrate steady excellence throughout the season.
Benefits of a Championship Round Embracing Multiple Races
Hamlin also highlighted the potential for heightened fan interest and engagement if the championship round included several races rather than just one finale. This approach could amplify storylines for television and bring more excitement to host cities involved in the championship battle.
I certainly would be in favor of a championships round,
Hamlin said.
You have all the other rounds, why not a championship round? I think there’s enough compelling stories that TV could make it work.
—Denny Hamlin, NASCAR Driver
I think it’s good for the cities that are a part of that,
he added.
If you had three, five, 10… I don’t know how many races this would be. But certainly it’s going to open up the possibility of the cities getting a round being a part of that championship round, and hopefully the fan turnout (is better) as well.
—Denny Hamlin, NASCAR Driver
Implications for NASCAR and Future Playoff Structure
Adopting a championship round consisting of multiple races could shift the way NASCAR crowns its champion, emphasizing consistent performance across more events instead of one decisive race. This format change could attract greater viewer interest, improve fan experiences in multiple cities, and provide drivers with a fairer pathway to the title. As Hamlin and other stakeholders continue to discuss playoff adjustments, fans can expect evolving competition and amplified intensity heading into future seasons.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. How did Denny Hamlin get so rich?
A. Denny Hamlin started racing full-time in the Cup Series with Joe Gibbs Racing in 2006. He has since had an incredible career.
Hamlin has achieved 51 Cup Series victories and won the Daytona 500 three times in 2016, 2019, and 2020.
Throughout his career, he has also earned millions of dollars.
Q. Did Denny Hamlin and Jordan Fish get married?
A. Denny Hamlin is engaged to Jordan Fish. After a bumpy first meeting, they connected during their second meeting and started dating in 2007. Despite facing some challenges, they have stayed close.
Q. How did Denny Hamlin get rich?
A. Denny Hamlin’s wealth is about $65 million, thanks to his racing wins, endorsement deals, team ownership, and real estate investments. Whether racing cars or managing a team, Hamlin makes wise decisions that contribute to his success both in the sport and business.
Q. Are Michael Jordan and Denny Hamlin friends?
A. Michael Jordan, who is a co-owner of NASCAR’s 23XI Racing team, expressed admiration for his teammate, Denny Hamlin. Hamlin recently secured his second Cup Series victory of the season at Darlington. Jordan highlighted his friend’s drive to succeed and mentioned that negative reactions only motivate him to perform better.