Denny Hamlin is facing a critical challenge with his car’s steering during the NASCAR Playoff race at Kansas, threatening to derail his dominant performance late in the event. The seasoned driver has led over 130 laps but now struggles with severe steering issues as the race nears its conclusion, putting his playoff advancement at risk.
Hamlin Struggles with Steering Malfunction in Final Laps
As the race approaches its final stage, Denny Hamlin reported severe problems with the power steering on his Toyota Camry, forcing him to physically wrestle control of the vehicle. The loss of power steering is significantly increasing the difficulty for Hamlin and his No. 11 team, who had been positioned for a strong finish.
Hamlin’s frustration was evident over the radio.
“There’s something wrong with the f***ing steering. It’s sticking bad,”
he exclaimed, expressing the severity of the issue with Dustin Albino of Jayski reporting the exchange. The driver continued,
“I don’t know what to do, I can’t f***ing believe it,”
words captured by Kelly Crandall of RACER, underscoring the unexpected setback Hamlin faced late in the race.
With fewer than 50 laps remaining, Hamlin’s battle to control his car intensifies as competitors like Christopher Bell and Bubba Wallace close in, waiting for a chance to capitalize on his trouble. Despite the mechanical strain, Hamlin held his position during the restart, demonstrating his skill and determination under difficult circumstances.
Current Standings and Playoff Implications
Hamlin’s current lead of more than 130 laps marks the most he has commanded today, showing why the steering issue is so devastating at this stage. If Hamlin manages to finish strong or secure the win, it would not only add to his NASCAR Playoff victories this season but also guarantee advancement to the Round of 8. With just a handful of races left before the Championship 4, every point and finish position is crucial.
The team acknowledges the challenge but remains focused on finishing as well as possible to avoid a damaging impact on their playoff status next weekend. With only 34 laps left when the steering began to fail, the fight to hold off challengers remains critical for Hamlin and his crew.
The Significance of Hamlin’s Performance Under Pressure
Should Hamlin overcome this race-long mechanical adversity, it would showcase one of his most impressive efforts of the season, demonstrating resilience amid mounting technical difficulties. His ability to maintain pace against serious competitors while managing a failing power steering system reflects both his experience and competitive spirit.
For the NASCAR playoffs, Hamlin’s struggle is a dramatic pivot point that could redefine the course of the Round of 12. Fans and teams alike watch to see whether he can hold off Christopher Bell and Bubba Wallace, who are ready to seize any opportunity to advance their own positions. The outcome here will influence the championship trajectory as Hamlin seeks to protect his standing and move closer to the season’s final rounds.
"There is something wroth with the f****** steering. It's sticking bad" Denny Hamlin tells the No. 11 team prior to pit stops.#NASCAR
— Dustin Albino (@DustinAlbino) September 28, 2025
"I don't know what to do. I can't fucking believe it." — Hamlin
The team says all he can do is get as good as finish as he can, so they aren't in a bad spot next weekend.
— Kelly Crandall (@KellyCrandall) September 28, 2025
