Joe Gibbs Racing veteran Denny Hamlin is on track to make his 700th NASCAR Cup Series start this Sunday at Nashville, marking a notable milestone in his racing career. However, his participation is uncertain, as his fiancee Jordan Fish is currently in the hospital preparing for the birth of their third child, potentially opening the door for Martin Truex Jr.’s brother, Ryan Truex, to return to the Cup series after a five-year absence.
Ryan Truex Poised to Step In if Hamlin Must Miss Race
Ryan Truex, a reserve and part-time driver for Joe Gibbs Racing since 2022, is prepared to replace Denny Hamlin if the veteran driver needs to be at the hospital. Truex has already completed his seat fitting and stands ready to race at a moment’s notice, making him a suitable substitute for the No. 11 Toyota team due to his experience and established relationship with JGR.
“It’s obviously any minute. I think Ryan [Truex] has been fitted in there, and if I get a call, I’ve got to go.”
—Denny Hamlin, Racer
Ryan Truex’s last appearance in the NASCAR Cup Series was in 2019 with Tommy Baldwin Racing when he failed to qualify for the Daytona 500. His last full race start in the Cup series took place in 2018 at Chicagoland, driving for BK Racing. Since then, he has competed in the Xfinity Series for teams including JR Motorsports, Joe Gibbs Racing, and Sam Hunt Racing, earning three race wins.
Denny Hamlin has emphasized that being present for the birth of his child is his top priority, which may prevent him from making his 700th start. He is hopeful that the delivery will be delayed enough for him to compete in the race and aim for his third Cup victory of the 2025 season.
“Oh, yeah. I can’t miss it. I certainly have to be there for her, and that’s the biggest priority. I wish she would hang on a little bit longer.”
—Denny Hamlin, Racer
The Significance of Reaching 700 Career Starts in NASCAR
Very few drivers achieve the milestone of 700 NASCAR Cup starts, and Denny Hamlin is set to join an exclusive group that includes his former teammate Kyle Busch and seven-time champion Jimmie Johnson, who recently celebrated his 700th start at the Coca-Cola 600. This milestone highlights Hamlin’s exceptional durability and consistent performance in the sport over his lengthy career.
Hamlin Reflects on His Longevity and Hopes for Victory
Reflecting on his career, Hamlin expressed pride in maintaining a competitive edge through so many starts and values the opportunity to compete at a high level for Joe Gibbs Racing. He hopes to make history by winning the race on his 700th start, a feat not known to have been accomplished by any other driver.
“It honestly feels good to still be as competitive as I was in [the first start]. What I’m most grateful for in all this is that, 700 starts later, I still can go out here and win this weekend. I don’t know if anyone has won it in their 700th, but I’d like to.”
—Denny Hamlin, Racer
The combination of Joe Gibbs Racing’s commitment and Hamlin’s ability to adapt to various racing conditions has been key to his sustained success. How this situation unfolds between Hamlin’s personal priorities and his racing milestone will be closely watched by fans and industry insiders alike.
