INDIANAPOLIS – Denny Hamlin, an emblematic figure in motorsports, has formalized his commitment to Joe Gibbs Racing (JGR) through a contract extension that could seal the deal for the coming years.The driver, after securing his 58th victory in the Cup, signed what could be his last contract, according to his own words. Although the details of the agreement were not fully revealed, it is known that it is for several years, with Hamlin preferring a term not exceeding two years.
Hamlin, at 44 years old, shows no signs of slowing down. He currently leads the season with four victories, surpassing all competitors in points except those from Hendrick Motorsports. He is ahead of Chase Elliott, William Byron, and Kyle Larson.A victory in the Brickyard 400 at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway would allow Hamlin to complete a milestone in his career by winning all of NASCAR’s crown jewel races. He has already triumphed in three Daytona 500s, three Southern 500s, and one Coca-Cola 600.Two years is what made me feel comfortable. I wanted to make sure I gave them the right amount of time and commit to them not just for a year, but for several, so they can continue building the program. I want to make sure I’m in my best shape in my last year.
Denny Hamlin
Since his debut in 2005, Hamlin has achieved almost everything in the world of motorsports, except a series title.With 706 races, all with JGR, he is the driver with the most time on the team. He has achieved 244 podiums, 369 top-10s, and 44 poles, solidifying his legacy in the history of the Cup.In addition to his successful career as a driver, Hamlin co-owns the NASCAR team 23XI Racing, along with NBA Hall of Famer Michael Jordan, which features drivers like Bubba Wallace, Riley Herbst, and Tyler Reddick.Hamlin has also acknowledged that he is not yet ready to retire, and could reconsider his decision in two years. He could even return to JGR if he decides to compete again.Adding another crown would be very important and then having won them all. Certainly, the names on that list are very prestigious, so it would mean a lot to me. It would just be another feather in the cap.
Denny Hamlin
Hamlin’s decision was based on several factors, including his competitiveness and the future of the team.I really appreciate Denny and everything he has meant to our organization. It’s really special when you think about everything we’ve experienced in the last 20 years, from the first moment J.D. Gibbs recognized his talent in a test session, until now. It’s remarkable in any sport to compete at the level that Denny has had for so long and we are delighted that he has been able to spend his entire career with us.
Joe Gibbs
I would like to see where I am in two years, where the team is, what their Plan B is, where they are with that and then how competitive I am, how good I feel, how much and how bad I want it. All those things are big, big, big factors in it. But I just want the ability to know that I can win my last race. That’s the deciding factor.
Denny Hamlin
