Hamlin on the Pole for NASCAR Final: Will He Achieve the Title?

Hamlin Seeks to Crown His Career in the NASCAR Final

Everything is set for Denny Hamlin, one of NASCAR’s most prominent drivers, to try and break the streak and finally secure the championship. In his twentieth full season, Hamlin won the pole position at the Phoenix Raceway, preparing for the final race where the title will be decided. The competition for the Cup will be decided between Hamlin, his Joe Gibbs Racing teammate, and Hendrick Motorsports drivers William Byron and Kyle Larson. Hamlin will lead the starting grid after a season in which he obtained six victories, the most in the series, including his triumph in Las Vegas last month, which marked his 60th victory.

I think the advantage was winning in Las Vegas because I was able to get a lot of work done before this week. That way, this week isn’t so busy.

Denny Hamlin

Hamlin has expressed his tranquility and focus on this crucial race, treating the week like any other in Phoenix, although with a greater influx of people. With a group of friends and family sharing several rental houses in the area, Hamlin feels supported. Obtaining the pole position gives him the privilege of choosing the first position in the pit area, which could be crucial to avoid speeding penalties. Despite the optimism, Hamlin acknowledges that the pressure is high, and he has lost the championship on at least six occasions. The driver emphasizes the importance of controlling the factors he can, and giving his best in the 312 laps of the race. Larson is the only driver in contention for the championship who has already won a title, while Byron seeks his third consecutive finish in the top four. Briscoe will make his debut in the title race, while Hamlin, a three-time Daytona 500 winner, returns to the final field for the first time since 2021. Byron and Larson qualified in second and third place, respectively, while Briscoe finished in 12th place.

I felt that, honestly, it was a really bad lap that I did. I was a little surprised that it was even 12th to some extent.

Chase Briscoe

This is at least the sixth time in Hamlin’s career that he has the opportunity to win the championship, and so far, he hasn’t achieved it. Hamlin has been the public’s favorite, and even his competitors recognize that a Hamlin championship would be well-received.

Everyone likes a story like that, where someone is nearing the end of their career, all that, I can see why people would root for him. Obviously, I want to win. But it would be great to see someone who has dedicated so much time to this sport and has been so close so many times. Sixty wins. Tomorrow I’m going to want to beat him badly, but it won’t kill me if he wins.

Kyle Larson

I think it would be a shame, wouldn’t it?, that when he decides to hang it up, it was the best he’s ever won, right? I think everyone knows he’s more than capable.

Chase Briscoe

Hamlin faces the championship race after a change of crew chief in the offseason, which he opposed. However, the new crew chief, Gayle, adapted quickly and could now be the leader who finally leads Hamlin to the title.

There are four really good cars, really good teams, really good team bosses. I just want to win the race and be the champion. It’s not necessarily something for me to come and give to Denny. Would it be extra sweet with Denny just because I know what he’s been through and he’s been close? Yes. I don’t know if that changes anything.

Chris Gayle

Hamlin, whose 60th win tied him for tenth on the all-time wins list, seeks this title as a personal consolation prize and to be able to share this achievement with his father, who is facing health problems. Hamlin expressed that he wants to win on Sunday, because he knows that this is his last chance for his father to see him.