FedEx and Hamlin both need to renew their contract with JGR after the 2023 season
Denny Hamlin began his NASCAR Cup Series career with Joe Gibbs Racing back in 2005. 19 years later, he’s entering another contract year.
At the end of 2023, Hamlin’s contract with JGR is set to expire. The team also hasn’t renewed their sponsorship deal with FedEx beyond 2023, as of yet.
The 42-year-old finished 5th in the 2022 standings and claimed two wins.
“Certainly, I’ve always wanted to finish my career at JGR,” Hamlin said, “and I’m optimistic that will be the case.”
In 2021, Hamlin became a co-owner of 23XI Racing with Michael Jordan. That Toyota team has a close alliance with Joe Gibbs Racing. For 2022, the team expanded, signing Kurt Busch in a second full-time entry. Tyler Reddick will take over the seat of the No. 45 in 2023.
Hamlin doesn’t see his ownership role with 23XI playing a part in his decision to stop racing full-time. In other words, he will likely end his career at JGR.
“Well, there’ll be a time where my attention will be more needed as a team owner than a driver, but it’s going to be on my terms and when I want it to happen and when I think it needs to happen,” Hamlin said.
“But I don’t think it … I don’t foresee ownership expediting my retirement. I think that my retirement will be a totally independent decision, regardless of where we’re at with the race team.”
Hamlin has collected 48 victories in 614 starts in 18 seasons. He’s yet to win a championship.
Kyle Busch recently left JGR after 15 seasons with the team. They were unable to secure a new sponsor after MARS Inc pulled out of the sport.
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