At the 2025 NASCAR Cup Series Playoffs race held at Kansas Speedway on September 28, a heated contest developed between Denny Hamlin and Bubba Wallace in the Hollywood Casino 400. Both drivers, representing powerhouse teams Joe Gibbs Racing and 23XI Racing respectively, fought fiercely for control of the lead, highlighted by sharp pit strategies and aggressive driving tactics.
The focus of this intense clash revolves around the Bubba Wallace NASCAR battle that captivated fans, as Hamlin’s No. 11 Toyota took advantage of a strategic two-tire change during green-flag pit stops to gain an edge over Wallace’s slightly faster pit crew.
Graphic Battle of Speed and Strategy Behind the Scenes
Denny Hamlin’s pit crew executed their stop in 37.34 seconds overall, with a notable 10.12 seconds spent inside the box and 27.22 seconds for the full stop. Meanwhile, Bubba Wallace’s crew performed a quicker total stop of 36.70 seconds, with a faster in-box time of 9.54 seconds and a 27.16-second overall stop. Even with this speed advantage on pit road, Wallace’s team could not maintain the lead position, allowing Hamlin to regain front-runner status.
The dynamics on track intensified as Hamlin deployed aggressive maneuvers to overcome Wallace’s resistance, spurred on by key instructions from his spotter emphasizing physical racing techniques.
Radio Exchange Reveals Rising Tension Between Drivers
A revealing moment during the race came through Hamlin’s radio transmission as he questioned Wallace’s pace, saying,
“Does he know he’s slowing us down?”
This pointed remark reflected the mounting pressure and competitive atmosphere as both drivers battled wheel-to-wheel.
Adding to this, Hamlin’s spotter directed him with tactical advice:
“You’ll have to drag him [side draft] and slide him. [slide job],”
outlining the aggressive moves Hamlin needed to execute to pass Wallace.
This strategic radio communication corresponded with Hamlin’s eventual successful attempt to overtake Wallace, pushing him into the race lead with Chase Elliott and Kyle Larson closely following, resulting in a four-car front pack breakaway.
Impact on the Playoff Race and What’s Next
Hamlin’s assertive pit strategy and on-track tactics not only secured his lead but also reshaped the front group dynamics in the crucial postseason event. With elite competitors like Elliott and Larson in close pursuit, the battle for the championship intensified heading further into the Playoffs at Kansas.
For Bubba Wallace, this competitive encounter underscores the ongoing challenges and fierce rivalries that mark his NASCAR journey. The exchanges between Hamlin and Wallace highlight the razor-thin margins and tactical battles that define the sport’s top level.
As the Playoffs continue, fans and analysts will be watching closely to see how these rivalries evolve and which drivers capitalize on split-second decisions under pressure. The momentum gained at Kansas Speedway could be pivotal in shaping the championship outlook for both Hamlin and Wallace.
Denny Hamlin on Bubba Wallace as Bubba battles him for the lead: "Does he know he's slowing us down?" Spotter tells Hamlin, "You'll have to drag him [side draft[ and slide him. [slide job]"
Hamlin finally takes the lead as Chase Elliott and Kyle Larson are there. #NASCAR
— Jonathan Fjeld (@Jonathan_Fjeld) September 28, 2025
