Denny Hamlin acknowledged during the Brickyard 400 weekend that his remaining chances to win the prestigious race are shrinking. After qualifying struggles forced him to start at the back, Hamlin fought back to finish third but recognized the obstacle had cost him a stronger shot at victory in what could be among his last opportunities to claim the win.
“I’m sitting back there after qualifying in the car thinking, well, I’ve only got two more chances (to win the Brickyard 400),” Hamlin said in a post-race news conference on Sunday. “I knew that I’d blown this chance for this weekend because of all the obstacles to try to win from the back.”
—Denny Hamlin, NASCAR Driver
Contract Extension Likely Marks the End of Full-Time Racing
Earlier in the week, Joe Gibbs Racing announced a two-year contract extension with Hamlin, which the driver has indicated will probably be his final deal. This extension keeps him competing at the Cup Series level through at least the 2027 season, when Hamlin will be 46 years old and potentially conclude his full-time NASCAR career.
This timeline frames Hamlin’s future in racing with clear milestones, including limited remaining attempts to win major events like the Brickyard 400, the Daytona 500, and the World 600. Each of these victories remains within reach but with a shrinking window.
Remaining Goals and Career Legacy
Hamlin’s career boasts 58 Cup Series wins, yet he has not secured a Cup Series championship, an achievement that still eludes him with only three or fewer attempts left if he retires after 2027. Despite this, Hamlin has expressed acceptance of never winning the championship, focusing instead on the legacy he has built.
His achievements and impact on NASCAR secure his place as a likely first-ballot Hall of Famer. Beyond driving, Hamlin occupies multiple roles including co-owner of 23XI Racing, a podcast host, and father of three, ensuring his involvement in motorsports and life after racing remains meaningful.
The Challenges Ahead and What the Future Holds
As the physical demands of a long racing career catch up, the question is whether Hamlin can maintain competitive performance through his final seasons. Drawing parallels to fellow NASCAR Hall of Famer Mark Martin, who also hailed from Hamlin’s region, the realities of aging in the sport are clear.
Hamlin’s thoughtful approach to his career’s final phase reflects both hope and caution as he balances competitive goals with personal fulfillment and evolving responsibilities within racing and beyond.
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. Since then, he has achieved an outstanding career. Hamlin has won 51 Cup Series races and triumphed in the Daytona 500 three times (2016, 2019, and 2020), accumulating substantial earnings over the years.
Q. How did Denny Hamlin get rich?
A. Thanks to his achievements in racing, profitable sponsorships, expanding team ownership, and wise property investments, Denny Hamlin’s net worth is about $65 million. Whether driving or managing a team, Hamlin consistently makes successful decisions both in racing and business.