In the dynamic world of NASCAR, contract extensions are usually sealed early in the season. However, for Denny Hamlin, the script has taken an unexpected turn. The seasoned racer, who has been with Joe Gibbs Racing since 2005, faces a unique challenge in sealing the deal for his future on the track. The intricacies of the partnership between Denny Hamlin, Joe Gibbs Racing, Toyota, and his co-owned team, 23XI Racing, have turned contract discussions into a lengthy affair.
As the contractual jigsaw puzzles come together, whispers of a seismic shift ripple through the NASCAR fraternity. However, the tale of Denny Hamlin’s contract takes yet another intriguing twist. NASCAR insiders are chipping in with their opinions. The speculations are regarding Denny Hamlin’s future.
And what decisions he may be forced to make if a deal with Joe Gibbs Racing doesn’t pan out similar to Kyle Busch last year was a common moot point. Will he move to a different manufacturer? Is Toyota really the best option for him? There are a lot of uncertainties that will only unravel with time.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Denny Hamlin shoots a straight answer at the contract saga yet again
The labyrinthine web of contracts is what has led to the prolonged negotiation process. Denny Hamlin candidly reveals the two-word explanation for the delay: “It’s business.”
Hamlin emphasizes the long-term viability of his co-owned venture, 23XI Racing, as a top priority. Also, the robust relationship between Joe Gibbs, Toyota, and 23XI is at stake. And all parties are eager to continue this alliance. However, the contractual intricacies and paperwork involved have inevitably slowed down the process.
Speaking to Dave Moody on SiriusXM NASCAR Radio, Hamlin explained, “Certainly, I have to always look out for the long-term viability of 23XI…
READ MORE: Denny Hamlin Lets Slip His “Pain in the A**” Need That He’d Rather Give Up
Again, the relationship with us, Joe Gibbs Racing, and Toyota has been really strong for our first 3 years. And certainly, all parties would like to continue that. But you know, there’s a lot of paperwork and red tape that you gotta go through to make sure that happens.”
✍️ “I have to have all the pieces of the puzzle put together before I can sign.”
🗣️ @dennyhamlin provided some context on his ongoing contract talks with @JoeGibbsRacing.
Plus, would @23XIRacing really switch manufactures next year? 🤔 pic.twitter.com/CHc08Pp5bc
— SiriusXM NASCAR Radio (Ch. 90) (@SiriusXMNASCAR) August 25, 2023
The NASCAR grapevine buzzes with speculations. Could Hamlin steer his ship towards 23XI Racing? Could he sever ties with Toyota and possibly embrace a new manufacturer partnership? There are just too many unexpected things that could happen.
The prospect of an uncharted territory for Hamlin
Trending
NASCAR Rumor: 66-YO Surprise Daytona 500 Winner Could Make a Return to NASCAR in 2025
How Late NASCAR Legend Was Forced to “Sell Everything” After Losing $10,000 to Mafia
Historic NASCAR Track Shutting Its Door After Final Run Has Racing Community Heartbroken
Forgotten NASCAR Track: North Carolina’s Abandoned Legacy Lost in the Woods
Shane Van Gisbergen Discloses a Major Problem in NASCAR After Leaving Supercars
As whispers grow louder within the NASCAR circles, an unexpected rumor gains momentum. Speculation revolves around a potential move that would reshape Denny Hamlin’s journey, steering him away from JGR and toward uncharted waters. The notion of Hamlin and 23XI Racing joining forces with Ford or Chevy sends ripples of surprise and skepticism through the motorsport community.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
It is a scenario few could have predicted. This shift could potentially disrupt the current dynamic and allegiances within the racing world. In a recent conversation on J.C.’s Garage, co-hosts J.C. Fickenscher and David Styles spoke about Denny Hamlin’s contract situation.
“It’s been rumored that Denny Hamlin and Joe Gibbs Racing have not come to a deal yet, and Denny moving forward. And if that happens, I don’t see how 23XI stays with Toyota,” said David. “And if they do that, where are they going to go? Are they going to Ford? Would they go to Chevy?”
However, Toyota might be the best option for Denny Hamlin, according to Fickenscher. “Just due to the size, they [Toyota] have six cars right now in the NASCAR Cup Series. And they are going to have eight if 23XI stays with Toyota next year. So they have the smallest car count, but that means that Toyota, their racing development program, has more money to spread out between those eight cars or six cars.”
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
As the days on the calendar flip, fans wait with bated breath to see how Denny Hamlin’s NASCAR journey unfolds. With contracts intertwined and alliances hanging in the balance, the road ahead remains uncertain yet promising.
Watch This Story | “Lack of Sponsorship”: Amid an Uncertain NASCAR Future, Denny Hamlin Uncovers the Rationale Behind the End of Kyle Busch’s Three-Decade-Long Relationship