Denny Hamlin has offered his perspective on how Richmond might secure two NASCAR race dates once again. Currently slated for only one event in the 2025 season after losing a second date in the 2024 schedule revision, Richmond remains an important venue for the sport. Hamlin, a five-time winner at this track and a local favorite, explained what fans and the city need to do to help regain that additional race on the NASCAR calendar.
Hamlin Discusses Path to Restoring Richmond’s Second Race Slot
During a media session ahead of the upcoming Richmond race weekend, Hamlin was questioned about the possibility of the city hosting two NASCAR events again. He acknowledged his bias as a native who grew up with two Richmond races annually but noted the current state of the sport calls for a change in approach. He stated the key to regaining the second date lies in attendance and fan engagement at the single scheduled race. Selling out or showing strong fan presence will help demonstrate the track’s value and viability to NASCAR decision-makers.
Hamlin emphasized that Richmond remains a vital short track in the series, comparing its importance to venues like New Hampshire, while describing Iowa as a hybrid type of racing experience. For him personally, Richmond holds special meaning as his home track, motivating him to make the most of the remaining race date this season.
“I’m probably the worst person to ask. I’m obviously very biased. I grew up with two races here. We always went to both. But the sport’s in a different place now. The way to get it back is you gotta come here and sell out at least the one time that you are here. Or at least have a really strong showing during that time. So that improves short track racing. If you can do those things with the car then perhaps possibly that it’s going to be put more in the forefront of the scheduling going forward as well.” —Denny Hamlin, NASCAR driver
Hamlin’s Outlook on the Regular Season’s Final Two Races
Leading into the Richmond race, Hamlin was asked if he expects the competition to intensify in the season’s last two events, Richmond and Daytona. Despite the stakes for many drivers seeking first-time wins or playoff spots, Hamlin expressed that the overall intensity level in terms of race strategy should remain steady. Factors like tire allotment and straightforward race plans at Richmond contribute to his belief that the racing will not fundamentally change.
However, Hamlin acknowledged the pressure those drivers desperate to secure a playoff berth might feel and how this urgency can alter race dynamics late in events, particularly in restarts.
“This is not really a big fashion forward track when it comes to strategy. I mean, it’s pretty straightforward. I mean, there, especially with the amount of tires that we’ve got. So I don’t really notice a big change in intensity. I mean, more desperation perhaps. Maybe someone that’s been mid pack is swinging for the fences with their setup, trying something just totally out of the box, hoping to hit something. But other than that, I can’t really pinpoint to anything except for at the end of races,” —Denny Hamlin, NASCAR driver
He elaborated that while most of the field may maintain their usual approach, drivers needing a win to advance will likely take more aggressive risks during late-race restarts. For these competitors, such moments could represent their final opportunity, increasing the potential for intense racing and decisive moves.
What Regaining the Second Race Could Mean for Richmond and NASCAR
Richmond‘s chance to host two races again depends heavily on fan turnout and the ability to showcase strong racing action during the current single event. Hamlin’s insights underline the challenge of balancing NASCAR’s evolving schedule with the desire to maintain traditional short tracks that attract passionate local supporters. If Richmond can demonstrate robust attendance and excitement in the upcoming race, it may persuade NASCAR officials to reconsider adding back the second date.
For Hamlin, the importance of Richmond extends beyond scheduling—it’s about honoring the community that has supported him throughout his career. As NASCAR approaches critical races at Richmond and Daytona, the focus will be on fueling both competitive intensity and fan enthusiasm to secure the track’s future place in the sport.