Denny Hamlin isn’t losing sleep over the championship that has eluded him for two decades. With 59 NASCAR Cup Series victories to his name, the NASCAR vet has a different perspective on greatness in stock car racing.
“It’s always been about number of races,” Hamlin said at the presser after victory at Enjoy Illinois 300 at World Wide Technology Raceway at Gateway, showing remarkable indifference toward the title chase. Rather than dwelling on missed championship opportunities, Hamlin is focused on specific conquests that are still within reach. The Brickyard 400 remains a glaring omission from his otherwise impressive resume. It is also worth noting that Hamlin was booed off after his recent victory.
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According to Denny Hamlin the Championship Drought Doesn’t Define Him
He also then made a bold statement, contrasting himself with racers who have got multiple championships, or in fact, even one single championship. Hamlin added:
When you compare me to someone that’s maybe got one or two, maybe three championships, and half the wins, I don’t think that person’s better than I am.
Hamlin then went on to acknowledge the fact that retirement might be near. At nearly 45, Hamlin now has his sights set on Bristol. A four-time winner there, Hamlin would certainly hope to take his winning tally to 60 there.
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Denny Hamlin is the Winningest Driver Without a Title
Hamlin holds an unusual distinction in NASCAR history as the winningest Cup Series driver never to capture a championship. This record stands as a testament to both his excellence and his shortcomings.
As retirement approaches in 2027, Hamlin’s legacy argument strengthens. The 44-year-old strongly believes race wins provide a more accurate measurement of career achievement than championship trophies.
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