Earlier this summer, Denny Hamlin signed a contract extension with Joe Gibbs Racing, ensuring he will drive the No. 11 Toyota for at least two more seasons beyond 2025. While this agreement secures his place for the near future, speculation surrounds Hamlin’s long-term plans, with retirement or a reduced schedule in 23XI Racing likely after this period, though nothing has been officially confirmed.
As the NASCAR Cup Series approaches several critical contract renewals, questions arise about who will succeed Hamlin at Joe Gibbs Racing when his tenure ends.
Assessing Potential Successors for the No. 11 Team
Jordan Bianchi from The Athletic has closely examined NASCAR‘s upcoming free agency landscape and noted that Joe Gibbs Racing is already considering plans for the eventual replacement of Hamlin. Hamlin himself has indicated that his current contract may be his last, which has prompted JGR to strategize the transition carefully.
Even though Denny Hamlin was on an expiring contract, it was no shock that Hamlin and Joe Gibbs Racing announced last month a contract extension that keeps him with the only team he’s ever known through the 2027 season,
Bianchi wrote.
So why are Hamlin and JGR on this list? Because Hamlin made it clear he expects this to be his final contract, and the possibility he retires in two years is very real. Thus begins the process for JGR to begin identifying Hamlin’s eventual replacement and then implementing that succession plan.
—Jordan Bianchi, The Athletic
Among potential candidates, Toyota prospect Brent Crews emerges as a promising option whose arrival could coincide with Hamlin’s departure timeline. However, given the prestige of the No. 11 ride, numerous top drivers will likely compete for the seat once it becomes available.
Advantages Joe Gibbs Racing Holds in Planning Transition
The good news for JGR is that it has ample runway and doesn’t need to be in a rush,
Bianchi added.
It also helps that Toyota has several promising young drivers in its pipeline — most notably Brent Crews — should it choose to go this route.
—Jordan Bianchi, The Athletic
Joe Gibbs Racing’s status as a premier team in NASCAR makes it an attractive destination, not only for developing talent but also for drivers seeking championship contention. The extended lead time provided by Hamlin’s contract extension grants the team flexibility in preparing a seamless handover.
JGR is also an elite organization, making it a destination spot for any talented driver who wants to contend for championships. And as noted above, several big-name drivers have contracts coming up for renewal over the next couple of years. Inside the garage, the talk is already ramping up over who may be driving the No. 11 Toyota in 2028.
—Jordan Bianchi, The Athletic
Legacy and Challenges for Hamlin’s Successor
Denny Hamlin has carved out a remarkable career with Joe Gibbs Racing, securing 58 victories in the Cup Series, including three wins at the prestigious Daytona 500. Although a championship title has eluded him so far, Hamlin’s continued presence may improve his chances of capturing that elusive crown before retirement.
The driver stepping into the No. 11 car will face the challenge of following a highly accomplished and experienced veteran. Until Joe Gibbs Racing announces the successor, discussions about who will replace Denny Hamlin will remain speculative, fueling anticipation throughout the NASCAR community.