Hamlin takes the pole in Phoenix: Will the NASCAR title be for the icon?

Hamlin Seeks to Crown His Career in the NASCAR Final

Everything is set for Denny Hamlin, recognized as one of NASCAR’s best drivers, but still without a championship, to try to break that streak in the season finale. In his twentieth full season, Hamlin secured the pole position at Phoenix Raceway for the final race, where the champion will be decided. The title will be contested between Hamlin, his Joe Gibbs Racing teammate, Chase Briscoe, and William Byron and Kyle Larson, both from Hendrick Motorsports. Hamlin will lead the starting grid after a season in which he secured six victories, the most in the series. His triumph in Las Vegas last month was the 60th of his career, securing him a place in the final and giving him three weeks to prepare.

“I think the benefit 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 as busy,” Hamlin commented.
Denny Hamlin

Hamlin has remained calm and focused, treating the week similarly to any other race in Phoenix. He will be supported by a group of friends and family who are sharing three rental houses in the area. After achieving a lap at 133.759 mph in his Toyota, securing the first place on the grid, Hamlin will have the advantage of choosing the pit stall, which could decrease the chances of speeding penalties. However, there is also the possibility that he is peaking too soon. Hamlin, who has lost the championship on at least six occasions, is aware that luck could change on Sunday.

“You can only control the things you can control. Obviously, we will do our best during 312 laps. I hope it will be enough,” Hamlin affirmed.
Denny Hamlin

Larson is the only driver in the final who already has a title, while Byron, a two-time Daytona 500 winner, is competing for the title for the third consecutive year. Briscoe will make his debut in the championship race, and Hamlin, a three-time Daytona 500 winner, returns to the final for the first time since 2021. Byron and Larson finished second and third respectively. Briscoe placed in twelfth position, the lowest among the contenders.

“I feel like, honestly, it was a really bad lap that I did,” Briscoe said.
Chase Briscoe

This is at least the sixth time Hamlin has had the opportunity to win the championship, and so far he has been unsuccessful. Mistakes in the past have included a spin, poor pit stops, and strategy issues. Hamlin has become the public’s favorite, and even his competitors recognize that a championship for him would be well received.

“Everyone loves a story like that, where someone is near the end of their career… 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,” Larson commented.
Kyle Larson

“I think it would be a shame if, when he decides to retire, he was the best who has never won, right? I think everyone knows he’s more than capable,” Briscoe added.
Chase Briscoe

Hamlin arrives at the final race after a crew chief change that he himself did not support. However, Gayle adapted quickly and could now be the crew chief who finally leads Hamlin to victory.

“There are four really good cars, really good teams, really good team bosses. I just want to win the race and be the champion,” Gayle said.
Chris Gayle

Hamlin, with 60 wins under his belt, is desperately seeking the title, partly to give it to his father, who has a serious health problem.