There was a time in NASCAR when drivers didn’t just race. Rather, they performed. The golden age of stock car racing gave us larger-than-life personalities who were as fiery off the track as they were behind the wheel. Drivers like Tim Richmond, with his flamboyant style and off-track charisma, brought a rockstar energy to the garage. Meanwhile, “Gentleman” Ned Jarrett was the embodiment of sportsmanship, earning respect for his calm demeanor and fair play. These legends weren’t just fast, they were unforgettable characters, each with a unique story and approach to racing.

But today’s NASCAR paddock often feels a little… muted. Or does it?

In an exclusive conversation with EssentiallySports, Michael Waltrip spoke candidly about modern drivers, defending some surprising names and explaining why one man in particular, Denny Hamlin, might be carrying that old-school spark.

Michael Waltrip talks about Denny Hamlin’s unapologetic swagger

In the exclusive interview, Michael Waltrip highlighted Denny Hamlin’s assertive nature, stating, “Well, Denny Hamlin does a good job of expressing himself. By the way, he’s never been wrong. He’s always right.” This self-assured attitude was on full display when Hamlin celebrated his Martinsville victory by waving a flag emblazoned with “11 Against The World,” a phrase symbolizing his belief in his perspective despite external opinions. But where did the catchphrase for the flag come from?

The “11 Against The World” flag wasn’t Hamlin’s own creation. It came from a fan. The phrase was a nod to Hamlin’s Ohio State–loving friends, inspired by the Buckeyes’ “Ohio Against the World” slogan during their College Football Playoff run, perfectly capturing Hamlin’s defiant, us-against-them mentality. Waltrip further elaborated on Hamlin’s demeanor: “He’s gonna tell you what you don’t know and explain to you why you don’t know it.” This confidence is evident in Hamlin’s post-race interviews, where he often provides candid insights into race dynamics and his performance, reinforcing his reputation as a driver unafraid to speak his mind.

Denny Hamlin channels the same bold, tell-it-like-it-is attitude on his Actions Detrimental podcast, too. Every week, Hamlin dives deep into race controversies, driver decisions, and NASCAR politics. There’s no sugarcoating, no PR spin. It’s become a hit with fans craving blunt, insider takes, further cementing Hamlin’s status as the sport’s most outspoken voice.

Discussing other drivers, Waltrip praised Christopher Bell, noting, “Christopher Bell is probably one of my favorite personalities cause he is genuine. He’s kind, he understands it, he gets it.” Bell’s approachable nature and consistent performances have made him a fan favorite, reflecting the positive impact of authenticity in the sport.​

Waltrip also briefly mentioned Todd Gilliland, stating, “Todd Gilliland is another guy that I think is a really fun racer to be able to hang out with.” Gilliland’s enthusiasm and engagement with fans showcase the evolving nature of driver-fan interactions in NASCAR.

Reflecting on the broader landscape, Michael Waltrip observed, “Sometimes, they get out of the car and bitch about things that I wouldn’t choose my time on TV to focus on.” Finally, Waltrip emphasized the importance of storytelling and enjoyment, things that make NASCAR, NASCAR. He succinctly added, “Tell the story. Have fun.” However, Denny Hamlin is looking forward to a great 2025 and hopefully his first Championship win!

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Denny Hamlin is on a mission in 2025

Denny Hamlin’s pursuit of NASCAR greatness continues as he aims to reach 60 career Cup Series wins. The milestone will place him among the sport’s elite. Currently, Hamlin has amassed 56 victories, tying him with Rusty Wallace for 11th on the all-time list. His focus on this achievement underscores his commitment to solidifying his legacy in the sport.

While a Cup Series championship has eluded him, Hamlin emphasizes the significance of accumulating wins. He believes that reaching 60 victories would affirm his status among NASCAR’s greats, even without a title. However, winning the championship will be the icing on the cake. Hamlin’s recent performances demonstrate his continued competitiveness. He secured back-to-back wins at Martinsville and Darlington, showcasing his ability to contend at the highest level. These victories bring him closer to his goal and reflect his enduring skill on the track.

Despite his age, Hamlin remains a formidable presence in NASCAR. His experience and strategic approach contribute to his ongoing success. As he continues to chase milestones, Hamlin’s determination serves as an inspiration within the racing community.​

Looking ahead, Hamlin’s pursuit of 60 wins and a potential championship continues to captivate fans and fellow competitors alike. His journey embodies the relentless drive that defines NASCAR’s most accomplished drivers.