Denny Hamlin’s win at Michigan wasn’t just another checkered flag. It pushed him past Kyle Busch to become the all-time winningest driver in Joe Gibbs Racing history. The achievement, while meaningful, was met with Hamlin’s usual mix of realism and appreciation.
Denny Hamlin Reflecting on the NASCAR Milestone
“Man, I wish it was last week, but I’ll take it this week,” Hamlin said, acknowledging the timing of the win. “The most in Joe Gibbs’ racing history. Yeah, it was great to break that tie with Kyle.”
Busch had long held the record for most wins at JGR, and Hamlin didn’t overlook the significance of passing someone of that caliber. “Obviously, you know, he had been the most successful JGR driver for quite some time,” he added.
For Hamlin, the moment is tied not just to competition, but to loyalty. “To be the winningest at one of those [top organizations] is very meaningful,” he said. “They gave me my opportunity, my chance, when I was just a late model driver. They’re the ones that took a risk and a chance on me.”
He emphasized that he didn’t come with funding or a big name, only ability. “I didn’t bring anything to the table other than my talents, and it paid off for both of us.”
On the post-race show, Hamlin was asked whether he believed he could reach 60 wins this season. He didn’t give a confident yes. “I’m not gonna say yes,” he replied. “You don’t always control your destiny.”
Hamlin explained his thinking behind that hesitation. “I just look at it as someone that’s very logical,” he said. “Is my… where are my opportunities to win?” With several road courses ahead, he noted, “The oval tracks is where I’m gonna have my best opportunity… I feel really good about my chances of winning as long as I’m turning left.”
Reaching 60 would require near-perfect conditions. “To win three more races, I need to have the best car… nine times in the next 20 races,” he explained. “That’s hard to do.”
Despite his pragmatic approach, Hamlin remains confident in his team’s performance. “Am I capable of getting 60 this year? 100%,” he said. “But will it happen? Again, this goes back to under-promise, over-deliver.”
This perspective is backed by experience, as he said, “Ask every single driver out there. They’ll ring you off five races in the last 10 where they got a shittier finish than what they deserved that day.”
He also noted the importance of timing wins, especially in the playoffs. “You’re gonna have to win one of those [round of eight] races. Otherwise, you’re gonna be barely sneaking in.”
The milestone comes at a time when Hamlin is balancing his racing with family and off-track commitments, including Fanatics Fest. Still, he remained focused on the race that got him to this point. “It just really makes you feel good, especially with a team that gave you your start.”
For Hamlin, the Michigan victory wasn’t just another win. It was a moment to reflect on where he started and what it took to reach a place in the record books, even if he’s not dwelling on it for long.