Kyle Petty Unveils Denny Hamlin's Rise to Stardom: Beyond the Wins
The key to success in the business world often lies in versatility. The more diverse skills you possess and the more adeptly you wield them, the more likely you are to achieve greatness. Denny Hamlin embodies this principle, elevating his career and life to new heights by embracing a multifaceted approach to his racing career.
Two words encapsulate Hamlin's journey: cache and swagger. Kyle Petty, in a recent post-race analysis on the 'NASCAR Inside The Race' show, highlighted how Hamlin's involvement in various aspects of the sport, from his association with Michael Jordan to his ownership of 23XI Racing, has transformed him into a versatile and charismatic figure.
Petty argued that Hamlin's newfound cache and swagger, cultivated through his podcast appearances and ownership role, have elevated him beyond his racing achievements. He believes that without these additional layers, Hamlin might not have reached the status of a superstar.
Among active drivers, only Jimmie Johnson and Kyle Busch surpass Hamlin in terms of wins. Johnson, a seven-time Cup champion, has 83 wins, while Busch has 63. However, Busch's last win dates back to 2023, marking a 90-race winless streak, the longest in his career.
Petty expressed his belief that Hamlin is destined to be the last driver to reach 60 wins. He also hinted at Hamlin's continued success this season, noting that Hamlin has three more races left and has already secured six wins this season. With races at Talladega, Martinsville, and the Championship 4 finale in Phoenix, Hamlin's chances of adding more wins are high.
Despite his success, Hamlin has yet to secure a Cup championship. However, Petty emphasized that Hamlin's impact extends beyond wins and championships. He believes Hamlin's influence as a driver and owner will be his enduring legacy, similar to how Junior Johnson is remembered.
As Hamlin's journey unfolds, the question remains: will 2025 be the year he adds a championship trophy to his collection? With JGR and Toyota's current form, it's a possibility that could soon become a reality.
