USA Today via Reuters
Aug 28, 2022; Daytona Beach, Florida, USA; NASCAR Cup Series driver Denny Hamlin (11) stands by his car during prerace festivities before the Coke Zero Sugar 400 at Daytona International Speedway. Mandatory Credit: John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports
USA Today via Reuters
Aug 28, 2022; Daytona Beach, Florida, USA; NASCAR Cup Series driver Denny Hamlin (11) stands by his car during prerace festivities before the Coke Zero Sugar 400 at Daytona International Speedway. Mandatory Credit: John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports
Aged 42, one really has to wonder how much Denny Hamlin has left in the tank. He is an established veteran in the sport and boasts of multiple race wins. However, the Joe Gibbs Racing driver has never quite managed to win a Cup Series title in 18 years. Now, his current contract with JGR and sponsor FedEx is expiring at the end of the 2023 season, so what lies in the future for him?
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With his part-ownership of the 23XI Racing team, the obvious answer is that he could retire and manage his team full-time. In a recent conversation, the #11 driver insisted on his intentions to continue racing for Joe Gibbs Racing. Hamlin revealed being a part of JGR’s plans for the upcoming campaign.
Denny Hamlin reiterated that he plans to continue racing for JGR. His deal (and FedEx) up after 2023. Hamlin said he is involved in some reorganization plans for JGR on competition side. He said his 23XI ownership duties won’t impact any eventual decision to retire from driving.
— Bob Pockrass (@bobpockrass) December 1, 2022
What else did Denny Hamlin say about his future?
The driver has also reiterated that his 23XI Racing duties will not affect his racing. In other words, he won’t call time on his NASCAR career just because of the organization. Sure, he is glad that the team is improving step-by-step, but there may be a concern that Hamlin cannot focus on his team and himself simultaneously.
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via Getty
KANSAS CITY, KANSAS – SEPTEMBER 10: Denny Hamlin, driver of the #11 Acumatica Toyota, walks the grid during practice for the NASCAR Cup Series Hollywood Casino 400 at Kansas Speedway on September 10, 2022 in Kansas City, Kansas. (Photo by Chris Graythen/Getty Images)
On the bright side, the #11 driver is still competitive and has been a championship contender in nearly every season. The big question now is, how long can Hamlin endure barely missing out on a title? In 2023, he will surely come back with more determination than ever. However, time is running out, and Hamlin is aware of the fierce fight his competitors and going to muster.
WATCH THIS STORY: Denny Hamlin Clarifies Bubba Wallace’s Disputed Tweet After Michael Jordan Fined Him $1 Million for Kyle Larson Assault
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He now has a young and hungry teammate in the form of Ty Gibbs, who could be a threat. Not to forget, the perennial threats of Hendrick Motorsports, and other rival teams like Stewart-Haas Racing, Trackhouse Racing, and Team Penske.
Do you think Hamlin will challenge for the Cup Series next season? How do you rate Hamlin’s chances of clinching his maiden title?
