In a sport where every word counts as much as every lap, some drivers aren’t afraid to throw caution—and convention—to the wind. Enter Shane Van Gisbergen, a driver who’s all about keeping it real, no matter the consequences. His latest interview with Scott Pye? Let’s just say it’s an unfiltered look at what happens when drivers decide to speak their truth, no matter who’s listening.

The man that became the conversation though was Denny Hamlin, whom SVG has high regard for, on track, and when it comes to being a NASCAR veteran. The Kiwi mentioned a key thing about Hamlin that he admired, and while he spoke to the Australian host, he explained the difference in Motorsports governing bodies between the USA and the Land Down Under.

Denny Hamlin’s outspoken personality resonates with SVG

If there’s one thing Shane Van Gisbergen doesn’t shy away from, it’s speaking his mind—no filters, no fluff, just the real deal. In a recent episode of the Apex Hunters United podcast, Van Gisbergen opened up about the differences between the racing worlds in Australia and the United States.

As SVG shared, he’s noticed how outspoken American drivers like Denny Hamlin can be, especially in NASCAR. Hamlin’s bold takes on racing and candid commentary have earned him both a loyal fanbase and a fair share of critics. It’s a level of unfiltered honesty Van Gisbergen admires but can hardly imagine in his own racing circuit back in Australia.

“Some of the s–t you say—you say the truth, and you get those legal letters here,” he noted with a laugh. “It’s kind of a bit more normal, like some of the s–t Denny Hamlin says; you could never get away with that in Australia. But, you know, he’s loved and hated for being out there and outspoken.”

Van Gisbergen pointed out that Hamlin’s statements, while divisive, often hit close to home. “I think it’s really good, what he says, and it’s usually accurate. And pretty much all the stuff you say is the same—accurate, especially,” SVG told the host.

Shane’s frustration with the constant legal repercussions for speaking up is visible. “Everyone needs to know the truth—or should know the truth,” he continued. “It just gets swept under the rug, and every time you bring it to light, here comes another letter.” For SVG, racing is more than just what happens on the track—it’s about authenticity, honesty, and, sometimes, shaking things up even if it ruffles a few feathers. It’s clear Van Gisbergen doesn’t mind that.

However, Denny Hamlin’s outspokenness has led his team, 23XI Racing, into a lawsuit with the governing bodies of NASCAR, and it looks like there might be a grim update from that end.

23XI Racing’s spot in NASCAR hangs in the balance

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Denny Hamlin is no stranger to high-stakes racing—but his latest challenges are coming from the courtroom, not the track. During a press conference at Phoenix Raceway, Hamlin hinted that the future of 23XI Racing, the team he co-founded with Michael Jordan, could be in limbo for 2025. “It’s all TBD,” he told reporters, leaving fans with grim news that has them shaken.

This all comes amidst an antitrust lawsuit filed by Hamlin’s 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports against NASCAR, alleging monopolistic practices that they argue limit team growth and competitiveness. Although their request for a preliminary injunction was recently denied, the case itself is still moving forward, adding tension to 23XI’s plans and the outlook for Hamlin’s NASCAR team.

Hamlin didn’t hold back about the weight of this moment. He’s poured his heart, soul, and significant financial resources into 23XI Racing over the past four years, building a team that’s earned seven victories since its launch. Today they also have a spot in the finals with Tyler Reddick in the Championship 4. Yet, with this lawsuit looming, Hamlin admits there’s anxiety about everything he’s invested in potentially being wiped out.

“You wake up one Friday morning, and something’s coming… it’s a nervous time for me,” he shared, reflecting on the potential impact. While he’s hopeful for a “peaceful or correct” resolution, it’s clear this legal standoff casts a shadow on the future, leaving the fate of 23XI on the edge as NASCAR’s 2025 season approaches.

With the finals on Tyler Reddick’s head, has Denny Hamlin’s outspokenness brought him difficult news to process right before the finals? Share your thoughts in the comments below.