Denny Hamlin, a veteran of Joe Gibbs Racing, believes that the series’ return to Chicagoland Speedway could produce some of the most exciting Next Gen races of the year.
A Test Session With Caveats
During a recent test at the 1.5‑mile oval, Hamlin gathered data that he says should be viewed as a guide rather than a definitive predictor. He warned that race‑day conditions will differ, especially regarding tire wear and traffic.
Track Characteristics
The Illinois venue offers a wide surface and long straightaways, features that Hamlin thinks will play to the strengths of the current car. He is particularly curious to see whether drivers will stick to the traditional groove or experiment with multiple lanes.
‘The biggest question is whether we’ll see drivers move away from the preferred lane and truly utilize the track’s breadth,’ he said, suggesting that strategic line selection could become a decisive factor.
Championship Structure
Hamlin also praised NASCAR’s new championship format, noting that it reduces the penalty of a single bad race and creates a more equitable battle for the title.
Beyond his driving duties, Hamlin serves as co‑owner of 23XI Racing, a partnership that blends his on‑track experience with a keen eye for emerging talent.
Scouting Young Drivers
When evaluating prospects, Hamlin looks for consistent performance relative to the equipment they are given, emphasizing racecraft over any single vehicle’s quirks.
He added that manufacturer alliances are driven more by business considerations than corporate mandates, and that the collaboration between 23XI and Joe Gibbs Racing facilitates shared information and resources.