Although NASCAR isn’t quite the same as other motorsports like Formula 1—where fitness is as important as driving skill—drivers in stock cars aren’t off the hook when it comes to staying in shape. Especially when they’re in their 40s and still competing at the top level.
Several Cup Series veterans have managed to outperform younger drivers well into their 40s. And now, Rowdy himself, Kyle Busch, has officially joined that club after recently celebrating his 40th birthday.
After hitting the milestone, Busch’s longtime contemporary Denny Hamlin had some advice for him about staying sharp on the track.
Denny Hamlin’s Career After He Turned 40
With his winning ways and edgy personality, it’s hard to believe Hamlin is currently the oldest full-time driver in NASCAR.
While many drivers begin to slow down with age, Hamlin seems to be heading in the opposite direction. The Joe Gibbs Racing driver has aged like fine wine and continues to capitalize on his experience.
Since turning 40, Hamlin has scored nine Cup Series wins and has dominated short tracks more than any other current driver.
With 56 career wins, Hamlin now ranks in the top 10 on NASCAR’s all-time Cup Series win list. He also holds the unique distinction of being the only driver on that list without a championship title.
Denny Hamlin’s Advice for Kyle Busch
When Busch hit 40, fans and analysts saw it as the beginning of a new chapter for the two-time Cup Series champ. But Busch himself didn’t feel any different, saying 40 was “just a number” and that he still felt like he was in his early 30s.
He also tipped his cap to Hamlin, who continues to compete at a high level at age 44.
“Denny has done a great job,” Busch said. “He’s 43–44, he’s still winning races, winning them at more than one clip a year, so that’s admirable and something that I wanna do.”
In a recent interview, motorsports reporter Bob Pockrass asked Hamlin if he had any advice for drivers in their 40s. Hamlin laughed and said:
“To me, it is just taking care of your body more.”
The No. 11 driver explained that while every driver is built differently and wears down at a different pace, he personally noticed changes starting at 42.
“My body really changed at 42, to make it where I had to do tons of maintenance,” he said.
Hamlin believes Busch is still on the right track when it comes to fitness. And as for driving talent?
“He’s still as good of a driver, I think, as he’s ever been in the last ten years.”
Hamlin, who has been critical of the Next Gen car, also noted that Busch’s move to RCR may be playing a role in his recent ups and downs.
“Sometimes you get to a car that doesn’t necessarily like your style and you have to adapt,” Hamlin said.