The NASCAR community is mourning after two major tragedies struck in December, a time typically reserved for family gatherings and celebrations. Joey Logano supports Denny Hamlin following the devastating fire that claimed the life of Hamlin’s father, Dennis Hamlin, while another high-profile loss involved former champion Greg Biffle and his family in a plane crash.
Heartbreak for Denny Hamlin and Family
Denny Hamlin, a veteran Joe Gibbs Racing driver, suffered a personal loss when a fire broke out at his family home, resulting in the passing of his father, Dennis Hamlin. The tragedy was compounded as Hamlin’s mother sustained significant injuries and remains hospitalized, leaving the family and fans reeling during the holiday season. Members of the racing community have been sending their condolences and well wishes, standing in solidarity with Hamlin during this difficult time.
Outpouring From Racing Community Leaders
Justin Marks, Trackhouse Racing co-owner and well-known figure within NASCAR, posted a heartfelt message on social media, acknowledging the pain Hamlin and his family are experiencing. Marks stressed how challenging it is to find words of comfort in such distressing circumstances.
“There are no words that can possible carry enough weight right now. All I can say is that I’m thinking about Denny Hamlin and his family tonight. Sometimes the grand design can feel so cruel and unfair.” Justin Marks wrote on X.
Marks’s sentiments echo the deep sense of loss reverberating through the NASCAR world, as many reflect on how unforeseen tragedies can upend lives so suddenly.
Joey Logano Offers Support to the Hamlin Family
Joey Logano, three-time Team Penske Racing champion and former Joe Gibbs Racing teammate to Hamlin, reached out publicly with words of encouragement and prayer. Logano emphasized the severity of the situation and reinforced his family’s commitment to supporting Hamlin’s loved ones, especially wishing for MaryLou Hamlin’s recovery.
“My thoughts and prayers go out to @dennyhamlin. Such a horrific situation. The Logano family will continue to think of and pray for everyone impacted, and we’ll pray for Mary Lou and hope the best for her full recovery.” Joey Logano wrote on X.
Logano’s message reflects the tight bonds even rivals share off the racetrack, highlighting how shared adversity brings racing families together.
Support from Fellow Champions and Team Leadership
Todd Bodine, two-time NASCAR Truck Series champion, also expressed his sympathy through social media. He highlighted the kindness of Hamlin’s parents, having known them over years of competition in the NASCAR garage, and called for prayers during this time of mourning.
“Praying for @dennyhamlin and his family. His Dad was one of the greatest and Mom One of the sweetest people to meet.” Todd Bodine wrote on X.
The compassion extended by respected figures such as Bodine demonstrates how deeply Denny Hamlin and his family have touched those within the NASCAR industry.
Steve Lauletta, president of Toyota-backed 23XI Racing where Hamlin is a co-owner, also posted his condolences and urged the wider community to keep Hamlin’s family in their thoughts.
“I realize tragedies happen each day but at the end of an already difficult year it is hard to see people you care for go through such tough times. Please keep the Hamlin family in your thoughts and prayers.” Steve Lauletta wrote on X.
Lauletta’s words underscore the collective grief affecting Hamlin’s team, especially when emotional fatigue from a challenging year is already present.
Gratitude and Hope from NASCAR Community
The flood of messages from current and former drivers, team owners, and executives illustrates the high level of respect and admiration held for Denny Hamlin’s family. Their decades-long involvement in the sport has built lasting relationships, evident in how quickly and passionately the community has come together to support them. As MaryLou Hamlin continues her recovery in the hospital, the hope for her healing remains a unifying focus for many, from the garage to the stands.
This somber period for NASCAR, marked by the loss of Dennis Hamlin and Greg Biffle’s family, has prompted wider reflection on the meaning of community and the importance of unified support amid adversity. As families, teams, and fans look toward the coming year, the NASCAR community remains committed to standing by those enduring loss and hardship, maintaining the sense of solidarity that has always defined the sport’s culture.
Praying for @dennyhamlin and his family. His Dad was one of the greatest and Mom
One of the sweetest people to meet.— Todd Bodine (Official) (@Team_Onion) December 30, 2025
I realize tragedies happen each day but at the end of an already difficult year it is hard to see people you care for go through such tough times. Please keep the Hamlin family in your thoughts and prayers
— Steve Lauletta (@slauletta) December 30, 2025
