Denny Hamlin, one of NASCAR’s most prolific drivers, is approaching the final phase of his racing career, with his last season slated for 2027 according to his recent contract extension. Known for his impressive 59 Cup Series wins and relentless competitive spirit, Hamlin’s journey continues to captivate the racing community as fans and analysts alike debate whether this final chapter will crown him with his first championship title.
As the 44-year-old driver races through the 2025 season and beyond, the stakes grow higher with approximately 70-80 races left in his career. Hamlin’s trajectory remains impressive, highlighted by his recent success at the Enjoy Illinois 300, where he secured his 59th win, tying him with Kyle Busch for the most Cup wins by a Toyota driver and marking Toyota’s 200th victory in Cup Series history.
Hamlin’s Career Milestones and Contract Timeline
Few NASCAR drivers have the opportunity to decide when to conclude their careers, but Hamlin is among this rare group. Throughout 714 starts, Hamlin’s 59 wins underscore his status as one of the sport’s elite, and his continued victories in 2025 show no signs of decline. However, with his contract at Joe Gibbs Racing set to expire after the 2027 season, Hamlin has confirmed that his current deal will be his last, signaling a planned exit from full-time competition.
Asked about his timeline, Hamlin responded,
I feel confident that I got two years left, and that’ll be it. I just want to keep doing this at a high level, and I feel like that’s a confident number in which I can still perform at this type of level,
emphasizing his desire to maintain top performance through the remainder of his career.
He added insight into the challenges of staying competitive without regular racing, stating,
Maybe. I just think it would be really, really difficult to be competitive if I didn’t do it week in, week out. Maybe with the simulation world we have nowadays, it could make it a little easier. But I just don’t know. I just think when I’m done, I’m done,
underlining his intention to fully step away once he feels unable to compete at his usual standard.
Recent Season Highlights and Team Insights
Hamlin’s 2025 campaign has been marked by standout moments and five race wins, including a significant victory at Gateway during the playoffs. This win was not only a personal milestone but also an important achievement for his team. His crew chief, Chris Gabehart, shared admiration for Hamlin’s dedication, noting,
Some of it was probably his work ethic… I didn’t know how much he took pride in that,
highlighting the veteran driver’s relentless commitment to excellence despite years of physical challenges and team dynamics adjustments.
The 2025 season also featured notable unpredictability, such as the tire issues at Bristol that turned the race into a demanding survival test. Nevertheless, Hamlin’s performance has demonstrated his resilience and ability to thrive under pressure.
Fan Perspectives on Hamlin’s Final Years
The announcement of Hamlin’s impending retirement has stirred mixed emotions among fans, reflecting a blend of hope, tension, and uncertainty concerning his legacy. Some admirers visualize a dramatic championship victory as a fitting farewell. One fan imagined,
A walk-off win to get the championship in his final season, then pulling a Kyle Busch at Bristol and absolutely ripping the format apart in his interview.
This envisioned climax aligns with Hamlin’s fiery personality and history of outspoken playoff critiques, including his 2023 comments on race inconsistencies.
Conversely, others remain skeptical about Hamlin’s chances to finally secure a title, referencing past playoff disappointments. A critical fan remarked,
Same choke job as the last 18+ years.
This points to moments like the 2019 Homestead race where mechanical issues dashed championship hopes despite dominant performances in qualifying and a 2020 season with seven wins undermined by final race challenges.
Amidst varying opinions, one supporter shared a wish tied to family pride:
Not a Denny fan but want his dad to smoke that cigar.
This underscores the emotional significance a championship would hold not only for Hamlin but for his close family after years of dedication and support.
The Ongoing Rivalries and Hamlin’s Controversial Persona
Throughout his career, Hamlin has cultivated a reputation as a polarizing figure within NASCAR, often playing the sport’s antagonist role. Fans referencing his contentious incidents, such as the 2017 Martinsville clash with Chase Elliott, recognize the “chaos” Hamlin brings both on and off the track. One fan summed up this aspect by saying,
78 wins. 4000 laps lead. 130 stage wins. 7 liquid tons of haterade. Give me all the chaos.
This depiction captures the mix of fierce competitiveness and public friction that has become a hallmark of Hamlin’s racing identity.
His involvement with 23XI Racing, co-owned with fellow driver Kyle Busch, adds another layer to his story, especially given the ongoing antitrust lawsuit against NASCAR over charter rules. Hamlin’s defiant attitude in the face of criticism was evident in his 2025 Gateway post-race remarks:
Y’all can boo me, but you can either get on the bandwagon, or you can get run over by it.
This confrontational stance reflects both his confidence and the divisive relationship he has with parts of the NASCAR crowd.
Legacy and What Lies Ahead for Hamlin and the Sport
Known as one of NASCAR’s 75 Greatest Drivers since 2023, Hamlin’s legacy is distinguished by exceptional race wins and consistency rather than championship titles. Despite multiple near-misses, including a second-place finish in the 2010 Cup standings, a championship banner has so far eluded him. His recent achievements, like sweeping Pocono stages last year, illustrate his sustained competitiveness even as he nears retirement.
The next two full seasons plus the remaining races in 2025 will be Hamlin’s final opportunity to add to his record, potentially hitting milestones like 70 total wins and cementing his place among NASCAR’s legends. His ongoing commitment to Joe Gibbs Racing, which dates back to 2005, highlights a storied partnership that may conclude with a memorable closing chapter if he achieves the elusive title.
As the countdown to Hamlin’s retirement continues, the tension builds around whether this celebrated driver will finally overcome past playoff frustrations and leave the sport with the ultimate prize. Regardless of the outcome, his impact on NASCAR’s competitive landscape and fan culture will resonate long after his final checkered flag.
Denny Hamlin has publicly stated he has 2 years left. To the “non-Denny” fan, how do you want to see the last 2 years unfold?
byu/THEROOSTERSHOW inNASCAR
