On May 25, 2025, NASCAR star Denny Hamlin expressed strong admiration for Kurt Busch following his induction into the NASCAR Hall of Fame Class of 2026. Hamlin highlighted Busch’s remarkable versatility and lasting contributions to the sport, drawing parallels between Busch and fellow racing legend Tony Stewart. This accolade comes despite Busch’s retirement caused by a practice injury at Pocono, underscoring the profound impact he left on NASCAR over multiple decades.
Denny Hamlin praises Kurt Busch’s Hall of Fame induction as he reflects on their complex history, the transition from fierce rivalry to friendship, and Busch’s role in shaping the competitive landscape of today’s NASCAR.
The Transformation from Racing Rivals to Trusted Allies
Back in 2012, few could have predicted the evolution of Kurt Busch and Denny Hamlin’s relationship from on-track adversaries to close friends. During the 2012 Virginia 529 College Savings 250, the two drivers engaged in an intense battle, with Busch narrowly securing victory after Hamlin closed in following a faulty pit stop. The fierce competition culminated in Busch warning Hamlin about a “payback list,” emphasizing that racing debts would be remembered.
“There’s a (payback) list like that – and then there’s a list of good deeds that have been done. And you pay them back as well. Even a guy like Denny Hamlin, when we raced at Richmond in Nationwide, he raced me clean for the win. It could’ve gotten ugly and it could have gotten big.” —Kurt Busch
Over time, however, Hamlin earned his respect and was removed from Busch’s payback ledger. The two developed an unexpected camaraderie that has since become one of NASCAR’s notable friendships, demonstrating how fierce competition can give way to mutual support in the high-pressure environment of professional racing.
Reflecting on Busch’s Hall of Fame Induction and Legacy
Denny Hamlin offered glowing praise for Busch’s selection to the Hall of Fame at his very first nomination. He emphasized Busch’s extensive accomplishments and his ability to excel across different teams and racing disciplines. Hamlin remarked that Busch reminded him of Tony Stewart due to his ability to “drive anything.”
“It’s an awesome honour for Kurt, certainly on his first try. It’s fantastic. He’s got pretty much everything. He reminds me a lot of Tony Stewart. His ability to pretty much drive anything.” —Denny Hamlin
Busch’s versatility went beyond NASCAR’s Cup Series, where he secured numerous victories in the 2000s. Notably, he ventured into endurance racing, achieving an impressive third-place finish at the 24 Hours of Daytona on his second attempt in 2008 with Penske-Taylor Racing. He also competed in the Indy 500 under Andretti Autosport, finishing sixth in his outing. These diverse racing experiences underscore his adaptability and drive, strengthening the connection Hamlin made between Busch and Stewart.
Kurt Busch’s Role in Building the 23XI Racing Team
While Tony Stewart transitioned from driving to team ownership and management, Kurt Busch took a different but equally significant path in shaping the sport’s future. Busch played a fundamental role in helping launch the 23XI Racing team, which is co-owned by Denny Hamlin and Michael Jordan. Hamlin credited Busch with laying the groundwork for the No. 45 team’s early success, especially in terms of car performance and team culture, which was crucial during the organization’s formative years.
“He was fantastic. Obviously he got that 45 team off the ground and kind of laid the groundwork of the things like our cars needed to make speed.” —Denny Hamlin
The team‘s early achievements, such as the victory at Kansas Speedway—their second ever Cup Series win—were pivotal milestones that boosted morale and validated the team’s strategic approach. Busch’s involvement not only contributed technical expertise but also helped cultivate a winning culture that has endured.
Shared History with Tony Stewart and Mutual Respect
Hamlin also reflected on Busch’s evolving relationship with Tony Stewart. Although their rivalry was famously heated, highlighted most notably by a brawl during the 2008 Daytona 500, Busch developed a deeper understanding of the competitor off the track. Through visits during Stewart’s injury recovery period, Busch discovered another side of the driver beyond the fierce rivalry they once shared.
“Seeing him at the hospital, seeing him at his house recovering, spending time with him at track when he wasn’t racing — I got to learn a whole different Tony, versus the competitor Tony I had always raced against. So the timelines worked out really well.” —Denny Hamlin
This insight into Stewart deepened the respect Busch held for him and illuminated the complex, often personal dynamics behind NASCAR’s public rivalries.
Denny Hamlin Highlights Busch’s Positive Influence on 23XI and Fellow Drivers
Recently, Hamlin praised Kurt Busch for his transformative effect on the 23XI Racing team and its drivers, especially Bubba Wallace and Tyler Reddick. Busch’s ability to enhance performance and improve the team’s competitive edge was a significant factor in the organization’s progress.
“I just think his ability to perform at every race team, every manufacturer — I think he won with all of them. He was really good at what he did, and the biggest change that I noticed is that when we brought him over to 23XI, he made everyone else better. He made Bubba quite a bit better, got that 45 team (Tyler Reddick) off the ground and really changed the culture there.” —Denny Hamlin
Hamlin’s acknowledgment emphasizes Busch’s role as more than just a driver, but as a mentor and catalyst fostering growth across the team.
Busch’s Gratitude for His Final Career Chapter with 23XI Racing
Kurt Busch expressed his appreciation for being given the opportunity to conclude his NASCAR career at 23XI Racing. He recognized Hamlin and team co-owner Michael Jordan for inviting him to join the effort, marking a meaningful closing chapter after nearly two decades in the sport.
“Finishing my career with @23xiracing was the icing on the cake. Getting a call from @dennyhamlin@toyotaracing and MJ, asking me to come on board and start a new team meant the world to me. Perfect opportunity to give my two decades of experience to.” —Kurt Busch
This statement highlights the mutual respect and shared vision between Busch and the 23XI team as they shaped a new era of NASCAR competition together.
Denny Hamlin Analyzes Team Challenges Heading into the Coca-Cola 600
As the NASCAR season progresses, Denny Hamlin prepares for the Coca-Cola 600 at Charlotte, a premier event often viewed as the crown jewel of NASCAR. Despite previous successes, including his 2022 win, Hamlin faces ongoing mechanical difficulties that have impacted his recent results, illustrated by a disappointing 12th-place finish at North Wilkesboro.
“The mechanical stuff, you can’t be worried about carrying over. You just do what you’re able to do as a driver, right? The mechanical stuff is something that I can’t control. The last two weeks, we had that. I think if it would had gone more than 40 laps green, we would have gone a lap down. We were the worst car, by a long way. To oversimplify it, we just miscalculated on our adjustments overnight. We didn’t miss it, we literally missed a decimal point when it comes to measuring things.” —Denny Hamlin
Hamlin candidly attributed part of the team’s shortcomings to miscalculations during car adjustments, which compromised their competitiveness. He also expressed frustration over the unexpected lack of speed despite the team’s usual strong performance.
“We should have still shown up closer than what we did. We missed it. It’s funny how the world and the universe kind of works. I was thinking this week, I was like, if everything can just stay together and I don’t have mechanical issues, I don’t have just something out of whack, running top five is the easiest thing in the world. I can’t remember the last time I had speed legitimately out of the top five.” —Denny Hamlin
Entering the Coca-Cola 600 with a qualifying position of 20th, Hamlin is determined to overcome these challenges to chase another victory at Charlotte, hoping to replicate his past success despite the increasingly competitive field.
The Broader Impact of Busch’s Career and Enduring NASCAR Influence
Kurt Busch’s induction into the NASCAR Hall of Fame and the praise from his longtime rival-turned-friend Denny Hamlin serve as testaments to his enduring legacy within the sport. Busch’s ability to excel across different racing formats, contribute to team-building efforts, and foster talent reflects the broad scope of his influence.
As NASCAR develops new teams and adapts to an evolving fanbase, Busch’s career offers a blueprint for versatility and resilience. Meanwhile, Hamlin’s candid reflections on his own team’s struggles and aspirations for upcoming races encapsulate the relentless pursuit of excellence that defines the sport’s top performers.
Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how Busch’s contributions continue to reverberate through 23XI Racing and beyond, as well as how Hamlin responds to the challenges ahead in the high-stakes Coca-Cola 600 competition.
