Joe Gibbs Racing encountered turbulence during Round 2 of the NASCAR Playoffs at New Hampshire, as tensions flared between Denny Hamlin and Ty Gibbs, teammates caught in a collision. The incident, involving two drivers with vastly different stakes—Hamlin still competing for the championship and Gibbs out of contention—brought a serious challenge to team harmony and raised concerns about internal dynamics ahead of critical postseason races.
Details of the On-Track Incident and Its Fallout
On Lap 110, while running 11th, Ty Gibbs was engaged in a tight battle with both Denny Hamlin and Christopher Bell. Hamlin attempted a pass under Gibbs but clipped his left rear, sending Gibbs crashing into the Turn 1 wall and triggering a caution flag. This contact ended Gibbs’ day prematurely, as his car sustained a broken toe link, forcing him to retire to the garage. Following the crash, Hamlin openly expressed frustration while Gibbs responded defiantly, igniting a sharp exchange that underscored the contrasting priorities within the team.
Impact on Team Relationships and Leadership Challenges
The clash exposed a clear divide between drivers pursuing the championship and those not in contention, prompting widespread speculation about whether Hamlin and Gibbs can maintain cooperation. Team owner Joe Gibbs initially downplayed the matter, suggesting that the drivers should resolve the dispute themselves. However, NASCAR insiders and commentators quickly highlighted the difficulty of the situation. During MSNBC’s Inside the Race, Adam Alexander remarked on the complicated position Joe Gibbs faces as he navigates the competing interests of his veteran star and his grandson, who also races for the team.
We’re less than two months removed from Denny signing this contract extension, which is going to keep him at Joe Gibbs Racing for the entirety of his career.
– Adam Alexander, NASCAR Commentator
And… this conversation goes a long way because of who’s involved and not just Ty Gibbs, the grandson, but Denny Hamlin, the driver, that has meant so much to the history of Joe Gibbs Racing.
– Adam Alexander, NASCAR Commentator
Alexander emphasized that Hamlin’s frustration is especially significant because he rarely demands preferential treatment despite his achievements. His professionalism makes any tension especially meaningful to team management, who must weigh experience against family ties. Reflecting on Joe Gibbs’ leadership, Alexander expressed confidence but acknowledged the complexity of the challenge.
I have great confidence in Joe Gibbs because (he) is a leader for him to handle it… (But) I don’t admire the situation the place that that coach Gibbs is in here. This will be a tough one, I’m sure. But he’s had a lot of tough conversations, when, as it results, or relates to his teams and competition, and I’m sure he’ll take care of business.
– Adam Alexander, NASCAR Commentator
Denny Hamlin’s Perspective on the Incident and Future Expectations
On his Actions Detrimental podcast, Hamlin addressed the conflict directly, expressing his anticipation that team leaders intervene to prevent similar incidents. He framed the crash as a matter of racing for critical stage points, explaining that even battles outside the top positions impact playoff advancement. Hamlin’s comments hinted at his frustration with teammates who are no longer playoff contenders hindering those who are.
My teammate out of the playoffs should not be the hardest car on the track to pass.
– Denny Hamlin, NASCAR Driver
Uncertain Road Ahead for Joe Gibbs Racing
With competition intensifying, resolving the rift between Hamlin and Gibbs is crucial for Joe Gibbs Racing’s postseason prospects. The incident has already increased pressure within the team, and whether team leadership can broker peace remains uncertain. As the playoffs progress, the stability of their partnership could significantly influence the team’s overall performance and championship ambitions.
