In the 2025 NASCAR Cup Series Playoffs race at Kansas Speedway, Denny Hamlin and Bubba Wallace engaged in a compelling battle for the lead during the Hollywood Casino 400. Hamlin, piloting the No. 11 Toyota for Joe Gibbs Racing, capitalized on a strategic two-tire pit stop that enabled him to reclaim the lead after a cycle of green-flag pit stops. His crew’s efficiency was evident, with a total pit stop time of 37.34 seconds, including a 10.12-second in-box time and a 27.22-second total stop time.

In contrast, Wallace’s No. 23 Toyota, representing 23XI Racing, underwent a slightly quicker pit stop, totaling 36.70 seconds, with an in-box time of 9.54 seconds and a total stop time of 27.16 seconds. Despite the marginally faster pit stop, Wallace’s team was unable to maintain the lead, allowing Hamlin to surge ahead as the race progressed. But the dynamics between Hamlin and Wallace were further highlighted by their interactions and the strategic decisions made during the race.

Hamlin’s comment, “Does he know he’s slowing us down?” directed at Wallace, reflected the competitive tension between the two drivers as they contended for positions. Hamlin’s spotter advised him, “You’ll have to drag him [side draft] and slide him. [slide job],” indicating the aggressive tactics employed to overtake Wallace. Ultimately, Hamlin’s assertive maneuvering and timely pit strategy allowed him to pass Wallace and secure the lead, with Chase Elliott and Kyle Larson closely trailing, forming a four-car breakaway at the front of the field.

This is a developing story.