DARLINGTON, S.C. — Denny Hamlin still has the burning desire to win races, an ambition that was on full display at Darlington Raceway.
While many of his peers, who began their NASCAR careers over the past two decades, have transitioned into broadcasting, pursued different interests, or are struggling with performance, the 44-year-old Hamlin remains a formidable competitor.
Hamlin’s recent success has been undeniable. Following his triumph at Martinsville, he claimed victory in an overtime showdown at Darlington Raceway on Sunday. This marked Hamlin’s 56th win in his NASCAR career, his fifth win at the track known as “Too Tough To Tame,” and his first consecutive race victories since 2012. His aim for the elusive Cup Series title, which his Joe Gibbs Racing teammates have captured during his 20-year tenure there, is within reach.
Hamlin attributes his recent successes to a thoughtful approach to racing.
“Now that I’m older, it’s clear that winning races isn’t solely about raw talent,” Hamlin shared. “I need to outwork others and focus on aspects that might go unnoticed by competitors.”
Joe Gibbs, owner of the team, highlighted Hamlin’s commitment to using simulators to enhance performance, not only for his No. 11 team but for all of Gibbs’ drivers.
This strategic mindset was pivotal at Darlington. Midway through the race, Hamlin acknowledged he couldn’t match leader William Byron, who led the first 243 laps. However, leveraging his collaboration with crew chief Chris Gayle and his efficient pit crew, he seized critical opportunities during pivotal race moments.
Following an incident involving Kyle Larson that dashed Ryan Blaney’s hopes of victory, Hamlin utilized a timely pit stop during the final caution, emerging in the lead. Opting for the outside lane, he sprinted ahead on the restart and dominated until the finish line.
Praise poured in for Hamlin, Gayle, and particularly the pit crew that contributed significantly to the recent triumph for JGR.
“They’re villains in their craft, showing up to win and confidently stepping away,” Gayle remarked.
Hamlin hasn’t shied away from playing the antagonist role for fans. After expressing thanks to both his pit crew and Kyle Larson for his late-race caution during a post-race interview, his comments were met with boos from onlookers at Darlington’s finish line.
“I know my personality stirs reactions,” he said, seemingly unbothered. “I bring it upon myself, and I enjoy it.”
Winning the final race at Phoenix would be the ultimate affirmation for Hamlin, who made it to the championship four in previous seasons but fell short in those final bids. Watching teammates like Tony Stewart and Kyle Busch achieve that milestone during his tenure motivates him further.
Gibbs harbors confidence that Hamlin’s moment to seize the championship title is approaching swiftly.
“For someone his age, his drive remains unyielded. We’re fortunate to have Denny, truly,” Gibbs remarked.
Michael Jordan, who co-owns 23XI Racing with Hamlin, supported him at Darlington and expressed optimism in a pre-race interview that Hamlin is deserving of a championship and determined enough to earn it soon.
Hamlin remains humble about his successes and is poised for continued victories throughout the season.
“At 44, winning back-to-back races and remaining a week-to-week contender proves I’m still performing at my best,” Hamlin noted. “Nothing’s diminished.”