Denny Hamlin, at 44 years old, is approaching the latter stages of his NASCAR career but remains determined to win his first Cup Series championship. He believes that a change to the current NASCAR championship format could not only increase his chances of claiming the title but might also encourage him to continue racing beyond his expected retirement timeline. Hamlin’s views highlight ongoing debates within the sport regarding the fairness and structure of the way the champion is decided.
Criticism of the Current Single-Race Championship Decider
Hamlin has openly criticized the existing system during an appearance on Actions Detrimental, labeling it flawed. He contended that supporters of the present format manipulate facts to justify the setup, which ultimately crowns the champion based on the outcome of a single race. According to Hamlin, this approach is unrealistic in motorsports because many other teams and drivers compete in that same race without championship stakes.
He emphasized the effort invested each week, stating,
“All these teams spend tremendous resources week in, week out to build the best and the fastest cars possible. And they hire the best and the fastest drivers that are possible, to go out there and get the best result.”
Hamlin’s main argument is that the champion should be decided over a larger sample size to better reflect the season’s performance.
“But you must create a larger sample size to crown your champion because in one race, anything can happen. Anything could happen. So, everything that I work for can get taken away by someone else who has nothing to do with these championship battles.”
—Denny Hamlin, NASCAR Driver
Concerns About Fan Engagement and Championships’ Integrity
Hamlin also touched on the importance of legitimacy in determining the sport’s champion. For NASCAR to maintain fan interest, the title must be earned in a way that feels fair and understandable. If fans come to believe the wrong person is designated champion due to chance or format flaws, they risk losing passion for the sport’s excitement. Hamlin indicated that he does not want to be part of an era marked by such disillusionment.
NASCAR’s Potential Changes and Broadcaster Involvement
The sanctioning body for NASCAR has promised to review and potentially modify the championship format in response to concerns like Hamlin’s. The current update suggests that NASCAR is preparing in-depth conversations with NBC Sports, the event broadcaster, about the future competition structure. Hamlin acknowledged his reservations about a broadcaster having significant influence in such decisions but acknowledged it as part of the reality the sport faces.
“If they get a legit format down, I might go longer because I feel like my chances would be better on a more typical sample size,”
Hamlin stated.
The one race, I don’t know. My chances are 25%. If you go to 36 races, I think my chances are better than that.”
—Denny Hamlin, NASCAR Driver
Looking Ahead: Hamlin’s Championship Ambitions and Career Outlook
Hamlin remains hopeful that NASCAR will adopt a championship format that better reflects consistent performance across the season, one that increases the credibility of the title and his opportunity to win it. While it is uncertain when or if such changes will be implemented, Hamlin continues to be a frontrunner for the 2025 Cup Series championship under the current system. His stance signals a push within the sport to refine how the champion is determined, which could impact not only his career longevity but also the competitive dynamics moving forward.