After a dramatic last-lap clash at Kansas Speedway, part-time NASCAR driver Parker Kligerman expressed strong admiration for Denny Hamlin’s podcast, Actions Detrimental. Kligerman highlighted the podcast’s raw and humorous nature, praising its transparency at a time when tensions on the track were high.
The podcast covered several pressing issues, notably addressing NASCAR’s declining TV ratings. A focal point was Hamlin’s candid explanation about racing aggressively against his own 23XI Racing teammate, Bubba Wallace, despite Wallace’s precarious position in the playoffs. Hamlin emphasized his unyielding focus on going for the win, unapologetic in his competitive approach.
On the final lap at Kansas, Hamlin attempted to pass Wallace for the lead, but in the process, he forced Wallace up the track near turn three, allowing Chase Elliott to seize the bottom lane and take the victory for Hendrick Motorsports. This moment sparked conversation due to the intensity between the teammates.
Kligerman took to X to share his appreciation for Hamlin’s podcast effort:
“If podcast episodes won awards (maybe they do?), then this week’s Actions Detrimental with (Denny Hamlin) should win one. Wildly transparent, authentic, candid, and hilarious. I don’t know of another athlete in the thick of battle who would put this much out there. Maybe me, but I’m dumb.” – Parker Kligerman, Part-Time NASCAR Driver
At Kansas, Elliott claimed victory over a strong field, with four Toyota drivers—Hamlin, Christopher Bell, Chase Briscoe, and Bubba Wallace—finishing close behind. Hendrick Motorsports’ Kyle Larson earned sixth place, followed by Tyler Reddick, Brad Keselowski, William Byron, and Shane van Gisbergen rounding out the top ten.
Denny Hamlin Responds to Bubba Wallace’s Gesture After Intense Duel
In the heat of their last-lap battle, Bubba Wallace showed his frustration by giving Hamlin the middle finger on track—a gesture Hamlin took in stride. Hamlin distinguished the move as part of fierce competition rather than personal disrespect.
Speaking to Motorsports.com, Hamlin clarified his stance regarding the incident:
“If he were to flip me off at 23XI as the car owner, we would have an employer, employee problem but as a competitor, he flipped off the driver of the 11. I don’t have an issue with that.” – Denny Hamlin, Joe Gibbs Racing Driver and 23XI Racing Co-owner
“Anything directed to me as an owner, I would certainly take an exception to that because I know the resources Michael (Jordan) and I give Bubba every single week to go out there and compete….I don’t take that personally because I’m assuming we got someone that is on the field in the game in a heated moment. I give him grace for that because we are competitors on Sunday.” – Denny Hamlin, Joe Gibbs Racing Driver and 23XI Racing Co-owner
Hamlin’s aggressive racing left Wallace stuck in the playoff elimination zone, 26 points shy of the cutoff. Other drivers endangered include Ross Chastain (-13), Tyler Reddick (-29), and Austin Cindric (-48), all facing intense pressure as the season progresses.
Playoff Tensions Build Ahead of Charlotte Road Course Finale
The NASCAR playoffs will resume at the Charlotte Motor Speedway road course on October 5, marking the conclusion of the Round of 12. This pivotal race will determine which four drivers drop out of the championship hunt, raising the stakes for all involved, especially those currently below the playoff cutline.
With drivers like Hamlin, Wallace, Chastain, and others fighting for survival in the championship, emotions remain high. Hamlin’s unapologetic approach and Wallace’s visible frustration highlight how fierce competition is shaping this critical stage of the season.
The Broader Impact of Hamlin’s Podcast on NASCAR’s Image
Hamlin’s Actions Detrimental podcast has captured widespread attention for its unfiltered look behind the scenes of NASCAR. By openly discussing sensitive topics such as intra-team conflict and television ratings, Hamlin provides fans with rare insight into the sport’s pressures and politics.
The podcast’s authenticity offering not only entertainment but also transparency is rare among athletes currently active in high-stakes competition. Kligerman’s praise underscores how Hamlin’s willingness to reveal the realities of racing could signal a new form of athlete engagement with fans.
As NASCAR faces challenges to grow viewership and maintain competitive integrity, personalities like Hamlin leveraging platforms such as podcasts might prove crucial. They allow for a more personal connection between drivers and fans, potentially revitalizing interest in the sport amid its evolving landscape.
