Denny Hamlin NASCAR Chicago frustration erupted during practice ahead of the upcoming race weekend, rattling his Joe Gibbs Racing team. Hamlin, who had been strong throughout the 2025 NASCAR Cup Series season, faced mechanical issues on the Chicago street course that sparked visible anger and uncertainty about his team’s current performance.
Hamlin’s Strong Season and Early Confidence Before Chicago
<pDenny Hamlin delivered an impressive first half of the 2025 NASCAR Cup Series season, matching teammates Christopher Bell and Kyle Larson with three wins each over the opening 18 races. Despite a disappointing early exit the previous Sunday at Atlanta, Hamlin remained a top competitor with three top-three finishes in his last four events, including a victory at Michigan.
Heading into the challenging 2.20-mile street circuit in Chicago, Hamlin felt confident, recalling his pole position achievement during the track’s inaugural race in 2023 where he finished 11th. However, this confidence unraveled quickly during his first practice lap at the event.
Mechanical Failure Triggers Outburst During Practice
On his initial lap, Hamlin’s Toyota suffered a mechanical malfunction causing him to spin and leak fluids on the track, abruptly ending his practice session. Following the incident, the 44-year-old driver was visibly frustrated, engaging in a heated conversation with Joe Gibbs and JGR Competition Director Chris Gabehart in the pits.
“I’m just saying like, something – I’m not saying this is us – but like the processes or something is just [expletive] everything up. Can’t even keep our cars together. It’s [expletive] agitating.”
—Denny Hamlin, NASCAR driver
Hamlin to Miss Qualifying and Start at the Rear
As a result of the mechanical issues, Hamlin will forgo his qualifying run on Saturday, instead preparing to start the Chicago race from the back of the field on Sunday. The race coverage is scheduled to begin at 2 p.m. ET on TNT.
This setback interrupts Hamlin’s otherwise strong season, presenting challenges to Joe Gibbs Racing as they attempt to maintain their competitive edge. Hamlin’s frustration highlights ongoing concerns about equipment reliability and team processes that may affect performance moving forward. Fans and analysts alike will watch closely to see how Hamlin and JGR respond during the rest of the NASCAR Cup Series season.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. How did Denny Hamlin get so rich?
A. Denny Hamlin started racing full-time in the Cup Series with Joe Gibbs Racing in 2006. Since then, he’s achieved great success in his career.
He has won 51 Cup Series races and has taken home three Daytona 500 titles in 2016, 2019, and 2020. Additionally, he has earned millions of dollars through his racing achievements.
Q. Why did NASCAR penalize Denny Hamlin?
A. The No. 11 team with driver Denny Hamlin received a penalty for breaking engine inspection rules. The offense is classified as an L2-level penalty by NASCAR. Joe Gibbs Racing was informed on Thursday that they violated Sections 14.7 of the regulations.
Q. How did Denny Hamlin get rich?
A. He has built a vast empire valued at $65 million through career earnings, endorsements, team ownership, and real estate investments.
Hamlin’s wealth comes from significant NASCAR earnings through race winnings and contracts. He also benefits from long-term sponsorships with companies like FedEx, Jordan Brand, and Toyota.
Q. Did Denny Hamlin lose 75 points for engine violation?
A. NASCAR imposed an L2 penalty on Denny Hamlin and car owner Joe Gibbs for breaking engine seal rules after Hamlin’s win at Bristol in spring. They lost 75 regular-season points and 10 playoff points, as NASCAR stated on Thursday.
