Denny Hamlin Hints at Possible Early NASCAR Retirement
Denny Hamlin, a prominent figure in NASCAR, recently hinted at the possibility of an early retirement. This speculation arose following his near-victory during the 2025 NASCAR Cup Series championship at Phoenix Raceway. A last-minute caution disrupted his lead, allowing Kyle Larson to claim the championship without leading a lap.
Hamlin’s Reflections on Retirement
In a candid moment on his podcast, Hamlin revealed, “I would have begged Joe [Gibbs] to let me quit had I won that race.” This statement has led to comparisons with Carl Edwards, who retired after a similarly devastating championship loss in 2016. However, unlike Edwards, Hamlin’s considerations for retirement were influenced by the potential of leaving the sport as a champion.
Looking Ahead to 2026
Hamlin, now aged 45, is set to return for his 21st season driving the No. 11 Toyota for Joe Gibbs Racing in 2026. Despite the retirement speculation, he recently signed a two-year extension to remain with the team until 2027. His legacy in NASCAR is significant, and he may choose to retire if he clinches the championship next year.
- Hamlin has expressed that winning the championship in 2026 could influence his decision to retire.
- If victorious, he might only compete in a limited capacity in 2027.
- There are speculations regarding changes to NASCAR’s playoff format in 2026.
NASCAR Championship Odds
As the 2026 season approaches, Hamlin and Larson are considered co-favorites to win the Bill France Cup. The upcoming season is expected to bring heightened competition as NASCAR potentially revamps its championship format.
The Daytona 500 Goal
Looking forward, Hamlin aims to become the third driver in history to win at least four Daytona 500 races. He previously won in 2016, 2019, and 2020. The next race is scheduled for February 15, 2026, at Daytona International Speedway, broadcasting live on Fox at 2:30 p.m. ET.
As the new season unfolds, fans and analysts will closely watch Hamlin’s performance. His future in NASCAR remains a topic of great interest, particularly regarding his potential retirement and championship aspirations.
