Denny Hamlin and his fiancée, Jordan Fish, are preparing for the arrival of their third child, a baby boy, expected any day now, coinciding with a busy NASCAR weekend at Nashville Superspeedway. Amid this personal milestone, Hamlin’s racing team is also focused on the competition, prompting the team to have backup driver Ryan Truex on standby to ensure the No. 11 car stays competitive if Hamlin must leave unexpectedly.
Ryan Truex Ready to Step In If Needed
Ryan Truex, younger brother of Cup Series champion Martin Truex Jr., is currently positioned as the backup driver for Hamlin. Known for his success in the Xfinity Series with three wins, including two in 2024, Truex is viewed as a talented driver deserving more full-time rides in NASCAR’s Truck or Xfinity Series. He has made 18 starts in the Xfinity Series since 2023, showcasing potential for Cup Series opportunities.
NBC Sports reporter Dustin Long confirmed Truex’s role in Nashville, noting that Truex is closely involved with the No. 11 team and prepared to race if Hamlin’s family emergency occurs. Simultaneously, Hamlin will not attend the upcoming Iowa tire test, with Chase Briscoe taking his place for Joe Gibbs Racing.
#NASCAR … Ryan Truex will be here at Nashville with Denny Hamlin on baby watch. … the 11 team was scheduled to do the Iowa tire test next week but teammate Chase Briscoe will do it now.— Dustin Long, Reporter
Playoff Waiver Plans in Case Hamlin Misses a Race
In the event that Hamlin needs to miss a race due to the birth, NASCAR’s rules provide a playoff waiver for such circumstances. Among official excused absences are events like childbirth, family emergencies, or health issues. This allows Hamlin to maintain playoff eligibility despite a possible missed event, ensuring fairness as he attends to his expanding family.
Handling the Situation Amid High Stakes at Nashville
This weekend is particularly delicate for Hamlin, balancing the potential timing of his son’s birth with his commitments on the track. Nashville has been favorable territory for Hamlin, as seen last year when he demonstrated strong speed and strategy but was ultimately affected by unpredictable race conditions and overtime restarts.
The ideal scenario for Hamlin would be to race successfully during the weekend and welcome his newborn in the days after the event. Still, racing and family commitments are largely at the mercy of timing and nature, creating a tense environment for this celebrated driver who is soon to become a father of three.
Significance of Backup Drivers in NASCAR’s Family Moments
The presence of backup drivers like Ryan Truex highlights how NASCAR teams prepare for unexpected family events, ensuring competition continues smoothly. Hamlin’s team has taken all precautions, with Truex ready to provide experienced relief. This approach respects both the demands of high-level racing and the personal lives of drivers.
As Hamlin awaits his first son’s arrival, the track and his personal life converge, illustrating the unique challenges faced by NASCAR drivers when major life events coincide with the racing calendar. The coming days at Nashville will test the team’s readiness, but no matter the outcome on the track, welcoming a new family member marks an important victory for Hamlin.
