Denny Hamlin and the No. 11 Joe Gibbs Racing team entered the 2025 Cup Series season without their longtime crew chief, Chris Gabehart, who was promoted to director of competition within the organization. Chris Gayle has stepped into the crew chief role, a move that some viewed as risky given Hamlin’s status in the sport, but Gabehart disagrees with that assessment.
Gabehart recently shared with the Motor Racing Network that the change wasn’t a gamble because the core of the team stayed intact. He emphasized that aside from the crew chief switch, everything else about the No. 11 team remained consistent, allowing Gayle to build on established processes rather than overhaul them.
“And then you tell the team and the driver to do the same thing. Nothing about the team’s changing. The process works really, really well.”
—Chris Gabehart, Former Crew Chief
Gabehart advised Gayle to leverage the strengths of the team’s existing methods, encouraging him to observe, learn, and gradually evolve the team’s approach. His confidence in Gayle’s adaptation reflects the strong foundation at Joe Gibbs Racing, which has helped Hamlin maintain a solid performance, currently ranking third in the postseason standings with 23 playoff points.
Gabehart’s Continued Connection with the No. 11 Team
During his six seasons as crew chief for Hamlin’s car, Gabehart developed close relationships and comprehensive knowledge of the team’s operations. Moving into his new director role, this familiarity has given him an advantage in overseeing competition strategies without disrupting team dynamics.
“You can’t help but be closer to them and have different relationships with them because you spent so many years with them in the trenches. And that team, I just have the pulse of it the best. I know how they work.”
—Chris Gabehart, Director of Competition
From managing paperwork to understanding Hamlin’s mindset, Gabehart’s deep insight allows him to communicate expectations efficiently. The seamless coordination between Gabehart and the team sets a standard many other directors of competition would desire.
The transition in leadership highlights the resilience of the No. 11 team and their ability to sustain success despite personnel changes. This stability positions Hamlin and Joe Gibbs Racing well as they navigate the competitive 2025 season ahead.
