Kyle Larson clearly spoiled the party for Denny Hamlin, who was chasing a three-peat at Bristol. Unlike many in their 40s, though, the veteran Hamlin is still very competitive. With two strong wins, the 44-year-old is currently second in the NASCAR standings behind William Byron.
But after the Bristol disappointment, Hamlin had to answer questions about his NASCAR future during the post-race presser. That got veteran spotter Brett Griffin fired up, as he took offense to the question’s timing.
Spotter Brett Griffin Swings at Media After Quizzing Denny Hamlin About NASCAR Future
Hamlin entered Sunday’s Bristol race with one goal — grab the win and celebrate. But his friend and rival, Larson, had other plans and took the checkered flag.
The Hendricks Motorsports driver looked unstoppable, leading 411 of the 500 laps. Hamlin tried to close the gap after Larson slowed in traffic, but he couldn’t make the move.
When the race ended, Hamlin had finished second. So, when the media got to him in the post-race interview, one question was about retirement. He gave a solid response.
Referencing greats like Kevin Harvick and Mark Martin, Hamlin said he’s still at the top of his game and has more left in the tank. He added that, unlike Martin, who raced into his 50s, he doesn’t plan to stick around quite that long.
Hamlin said, “My drive is still there, and obviously, the performance is still there. So, I’m going to try to just win all I can in this window while it is still there.”
As of now, Hamlin has two wins this season (Martinsville and Darlington) and remains as dangerous as ever. Still, “Door Bumper Clear” co-host Griffin didn’t like the retirement talk.
Responding to FOX reporter Bob Pockrass, Griffin fired back: “Stop asking when they’ll stop and just enjoy while they are here competing. Whoever asks this never competed in any contact sport.”
Stop asking when they’ll stop and just enjoy while they are here competing. Whoever asks this never competed in any contact sport. https://t.co/iiyhK1ohOU
— Brett Griffin (@SpotterBrett) April 14, 2025
Griffin made it clear that instead of always bringing up retirement, fans and media should appreciate what Hamlin brings to the track while he’s still racing. He also took a jab at whoever asked the question, saying it likely came from someone who’s never been in a competitive sport.
Griffin is a well-known spotter who’s worked with drivers like Clint Bowyer, Jeff Burton, and Elliott Sadler, among others. He’s outspoken and rarely holds back, even when it lands him in hot water.
But was his latest rant justified?