Denny Hamlin opened up about the challenges he has faced adapting to the recent horsepower adjustment implemented by NASCAR. Following a dominant 2025 season, the Joe Gibbs Racing driver explained how the added power changes the approach needed for corner entry and overall race strategy.
This year, NASCAR introduced a 750-horsepower increase for short tracks, road courses, and ovals less than 1.5 miles in length. This decision aimed to enhance overtaking opportunities, which had been limited during the Next Gen Era. NASCAR officials believe that combined with tire wear management, this power boost will improve the racing spectacle on these circuits.
Hamlin experienced a remarkable 2025 campaign, securing his 60th career victory after six wins throughout the season. He was also a strong contender for the championship until a late-race tire strategy failure ultimately extinguished his title hopes.
However, this season has proved difficult for Hamlin, who has yet to break into the top 10 in qualifying across his four starts. He has led 18 laps total, a stark contrast to his teammate Christopher Bell‘s 194 laps in the lead. The Virginia native acknowledged the adjustment period to the increased horsepower during a recent episode of Actions Detrimental.
“We do have additional horsepower, so the speed in which you’re entering the corners are different. Therefore, the amount of brake that you use on corner entry is now different. When we were wildly successful last fall, I mean, that the teammates take that and they tweak on it and they feel like they can make it a little better here and there. I thought that the 20 was better. I felt comfortable that we were a little better than the 19 and the 54. If we we wouldn’ve won yesterday, we would’ve had to stole it”
?Denny Hamlin, Joe Gibbs Racing Driver
Currently, Hamlin stands 12th in the point standings with 107 points. His fifth-place finish at Phoenix was a crucial moment, boosting him 11 positions in the rankings and hinting at potential momentum going forward.
Insights from Hamlin on His Phoenix Race Performance
Reflecting on his strong showing at Phoenix, Hamlin expressed optimism about improving in the upcoming events. His fifth-place effort contributed to a notable performance by the Joe Gibbs Racing team, which saw all three drivers finish within the top five at the event.
“Yeah, it’s just a fringe top three to four car all day. That’s kind of all we had in the 20th and the 12th. We’re obviously little standouts there. But yeah, a great, great job by our Bob’s furniture Camry. Just need to be a little better,”
?Denny Hamlin, Joe Gibbs Racing Driver
The Phoenix race also highlighted strategic parallels to last year’s season finale. Christopher Bell, like Hamlin previously, opted for four fresh tires during the final pitstop. Meanwhile, Ryan Blaney took two sets of tires, prioritizing track position. The two-tire decision mirrored what happened in 2025, where Kyle Larson reaped benefits. This time, Blaney emerged on top, while Bell was unable to catch him before the finish.
Hamlin’s current performance underscores the ongoing adaptation to NASCAR’s horsepower revisions and strategic shifts. As he and his Joe Gibbs Racing teammates continue to refine their setups and decisions, their competitiveness on the shorter tracks and road courses will be closely watched. How well Hamlin adjusts could shape his chances for a strong title run later in the season.
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