Denny Hamlin, the 2026 NASCAR Cup points leader, has thrown his weight behind a proposal to bring North Wilkesboro back to the Cup schedule in 2027, arguing that the short, high‑banked oval delivers the kind of racing dynamics that fans associate with Bristol.
A Track That Resonates
The July 19 Window World 450 marked the first points‑race at the North Carolina venue since 1996, and Hamlin’s runner‑up finish behind Joey Logano gave him a firsthand feel for the track’s unique groove.
Having witnessed three consecutive All‑Star events at the same site between 2023 and 2025, Hamlin says the atmosphere and competitive intensity make a strong case for preserving the track on the calendar, even as he questions whether the facilities can handle the growing demand.
Looking ahead to the 2026 Chase, Hamlin ruled out Ross Chastain, Michael McDowell and Brad Keselowski from contention, noting that the current elite drivers are beginning to separate themselves from the rest of the field.
The veteran also pointed to the broader shift in the sport, where a handful of top performers are pulling ahead, while drivers such as Bubba Wallace, Shane van Gisbergen and Austin Cindric remain in the mix but face a larger gap to the leaders.
Beyond the on‑track action, Hamlin’s comments come as teams and series organizers evaluate the future of historic venues, hoping to balance tradition with the logistical realities of a modern racing season.