As of now, the veteran driver isn’t committing to the NASCAR Cup Series in 2026
Denny Hamlin has spent the last 21 years racing in the NASCAR Cup Series. With 60 race wins, the driver has yet to earn a championship title. On Sunday, he was as close as he’s ever been.
With 4 laps to go in Sunday’s championship finale at Phoenix Raceway, Hamlin was leading by several seconds and driving away from the field. Suddenly, a caution came out as William Byron blew a tire and found the wall.
This sent most of the field to the pit lane. Hamlin elected for four tires as Kyle Larson took just two tires.
On the restart, Larson was able to keep Hamlin in the mirror. In what appeared to be a layup prior to the caution, Hamlin was unable to win the championship. Instead, Kyle Larson grabbed his second career championship.
After the race, Hamlin was clearly dejected. He sat in his car and glared as Larson celebrated on the front stretch. Comments after the race, put some doubt on a return in 2026.
Denny Hamlin: “In this moment, I never want to race a car again.”
Today, that doubt continues with new comments. Hear what Hamlin said on Tuesday at the NASCAR Awards Show below.
The 44-year-old is signed to race through the 2027 season for Joe Gibbs Racing in the No. 11 car. However, right now, he’s not confirming a return for 2026.
Additionally, Hamlin usually records his Actions Detrimental podcast directly after each race. This week, Dirty Mo Media put out a podcast schedule and Actions Detrimental was listed as TBD.
Carl Edwards comes to mind. Edwards abruptly retired following the 2016 season. His career ended in a crash while going for the championship at Homestead-Miami Speedway. He retired with time left on his contract and he never earned a championship.
Carl Edwards finally clarifies reason for surprise NASCAR retirement
Denny Hamlin comments on 2026
“I mean, I plan to,” Denny Hamlin told reporters on Tuesday during the NASCAR Awards banquet.
“I have a contract to. But, at this point there’s just absolutely no way that I would even – I don’t even think about the race car right now.”
“Just, I’m going to need some time on this one.”
Hamlin added, “The good news is the banquets two weeks earlier this week. So, the off-season is a little bit longer.”
“But, I’ll get over it. Just, it’s going to take a minute.”
How much did Kyle Larson earn for winning the 2025 NASCAR title?
Denny Hamlin comments on 2026
Phoenix Race Results: November 2, 2025 (NASCAR Championship)
