The recent success of Corey Heim in the Truck Series has increased the intensity of the Denny Hamlin NASCAR pressure as 23XI Racing navigates a complicated period characterized by legal disputes and roster uncertainties. On July 21, Heim clinched the regular season championship with a strong third-place finish at Indianapolis Raceway Park, providing a much-needed positive highlight for 23XI Racing amid ongoing setbacks.
Earlier in the month, 23XI Racing faced serious obstacles after the court overturned an injunction that had allowed the team to compete as chartered teams in 2025. The team’s subsequent appeals for a rehearing and a temporary restraining order were denied, leading to NASCAR revoking two of their charters just before the Cup Series race at Dover.
Heim’s impressive performance as a sign of rising talent
Corey Heim, who races for Tricon Garage Toyota in the Truck Series but is officially a development driver for 23XI Racing, entered the race leading the standings by 144 points over Chandler Smith. He needed only 39 points to secure the regular season title and ultimately earned 45 points, solidifying his status as a key prospect. Heim expressed satisfaction with his performance, saying,
“Feels really good. Just a testament to how good I’ve been this year,”
after the race at IRP.
He also commented on his level of competition, noting,
“I feel like this is probably the first race where I haven’t had a legitimate shot to compete for the win, so that really says something.”
Heim’s success adds pressure on 23XI Racing’s leadership to make strategic career moves
While Heim’s championship represents a bright spot for 23XI Racing, it simultaneously creates a heightened expectation for team owners Michael Jordan and Denny Hamlin to accelerate his development and career progression. Currently a two-time regular-season champion in the Truck Series, Heim has yet to secure the overall playoff championship, but remaining in trucks for another season appears to stall his momentum.
A potential move up to the Xfinity Series is an option, though Heim’s consistent dominance suggests he is ready for greater challenges. Denny Hamlin has publicly emphasized his long-term plans to keep Heim within 23XI Racing’s framework, making the prospect of fast-tracking Heim appealing despite contractual complications. All of 23XI’s current drivers are signed through 2026, but underperformance by Riley Herbst in the No. 35 car intensifies the debate within the team about promoting Heim sooner rather than later.
The possibility of other teams attempting to recruit Heim is a real threat, especially if 23XI Racing cannot present an attractive development path. The uncertainty surrounding the team‘s future due to the loss of charters further complicates decision-making about how best to integrate Heim into higher-tier racing divisions.
Uncertain future for 23XI Racing’s charters and driver lineup
At present, 23XI Racing faces significant ambiguity regarding their three Cup Series charters, casting doubt on the team’s future racing plans and lineups. However, it is clear that Corey Heim has outgrown his current position in the Truck Series and is prepared to advance. Whether that next step will be the Xfinity Series or the Cup Series, and whether it will occur within 23XI or elsewhere, Heim’s recent success forces the team to carefully consider its next moves.
Hamlin and Jordan must balance legal challenges, contractual obligations, and driver development demands to retain their promising talent. Heim’s achievements intensify the pressure on 23XI Racing’s leadership to avoid dismissing potential and to build a competitive roster despite ongoing turbulence.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. How did Denny Hamlin get so rich?
A. Starting his full-time Cup Series career in 2006 with Joe Gibbs Racing, Hamlin has become a prominent figure in racing. He’s achieved 51 Cup Series victories and won the Daytona 500 three times (2016, 2019, and 2020), garnering significant earnings throughout his career.
Q. Did Denny Hamlin and Jordan Fish get married?
A. Denny Hamlin is set to marry Jordan Fish. When she was a child, Jordan loved dancing, which eventually landed her a spot performing for the NBA’s Charlotte Bobcats. This team is now known as the Charlotte Hornets. Jordan and Hamlin first crossed paths at one of her Bobcats performances.
Q. How is Denny Hamlin so rich?
A. How Denny Hamlin Built a $65M Net Worth: He earned over $100 million from NASCAR deals and prize money. He has big endorsements with FedEx, Jordan Brand, and Toyota. He co-owns 23XI Racing, which is now worth over $100 million.
