A Season to Remember
Denny Hamlin, the 45‑year‑old veteran of the NASCAR Cup Series, is currently perched at the top of the championship standings as he enters his 22nd full‑time campaign.
What makes this year different is not just the points tally but the quality of his finishes. Hamlin’s average placement this season sits four positions higher than his career‑long mean, a margin that reflects both consistency and speed.
In a recent conversation with the Backstretch Podcast, Hamlin laid much of the credit at the feet of his crew and the broader Toyota program. “Our execution has been flawless, and Toyota’s performance has given us that extra edge we’ve been chasing,” he said.
The No. 11 car, long a fixture in the series, has finally unlocked an advantage that has translated into stronger lap times and better strategic calls on race day.
Looking Ahead
With momentum on his side, Hamlin says the focus remains on maintaining the current trajectory, fine‑tuning the car’s setup, and capitalizing on the synergy between driver, crew and manufacturer.
The podcast episode, released each weekend, is available on the News 5 YouTube channel and can also be streamed via Apple Podcasts, giving fans ample opportunity to hear Hamlin’s insights as the season unfolds.