“Don’t hate the player, hate the game.” You’ve probably heard that line thrown around in various circumstances in your life. But it’s never felt more fitting than it does for Kyle Larson’s second Cup Series championship at Phoenix in 2025. While Larson crossed the line as champion, the reaction was anything but unanimous praise. The format was blasted. The cautions were questioned. And many critics pointed their fingers at the system. Some even suggested Larson didn’t truly earn it.

But while the noise reached its peak, one voice cut through with unexpected clarity: Denny Hamlin. Yes, the same driver who heartbreakingly lost the title. Instead of bitterness, Hamlin stepped up and showed ‘Yung Money’ some respect. And now, he’s delivering a message that shuts down every doubter in a single, powerful stroke.

Denny Hamlin supports Kyle Larson

Denny Hamlin publicly shut down critics of Kyle Larson following the dramatic 2025 NASCAR season finale. Reflecting on the race, Hamlin, on the Actions Detrimental podcast, said, “I don’t think anyone should ever question the deservingness of Kyle Larson’s championship, because he definitely did.”

When the caution came out on Lap 298, Kyle Larson was behind Denny Hamlin. And the only way to win the championship was to be on the receiving end of some sort of miracle. That’s exactly what happened when William Byron’s tire burst. The No. 5 team took a bold step during the pit stop that followed the caution, opting for a two-tire call, which gave Larson track position over Hamlin, who took four tires and lost crucial ground.

This strategic gamble helped Larson clinch the championship by finishing ahead and accumulating the most points throughout the season. “He did nothing wrong. His team knew they had to do something to try to win. They played the game as it was meant to be played,” Hamlin backed Larson.

And if you look at the broader picture, Larson isn’t the first driver to be criticized for winning the championship in the current NASCAR playoff system.

Joey Logano, Team Penske’s star driver, is often criticized by fans despite winning multiple championships. Why? All because they feel he is undeserving. However, the matter of fact is that Logano, too, has mastered the playoff format. His success comes from smart pit strategies, consistent point accumulation, and clutch race wins. Modern NASCAR requires both skill and strategic acumen. Something which Logano (and now Larson) has mastered.

Moreover, Hamlin offered sincere support for his teammate, Chase Briscoe, another contender for the championship. “If I didn’t win, I wish it were a Toyota. Wish Chase would have got it,” Denny Hamlin sighed. Briscoe’s strong performance made him a legitimate contender. However, the No. 19 driver had a forgettable Phoenix race as he finished eighteenth, third among the four title competitors.

In closing, Hamlin emphasized the intense respect he holds for Larson, stating, “I just certainly admire his ability behind the wheel and to do special things.” While the season ended in disappointment for Hamlin, his gracious acknowledgement of Larson’s deserving championship showcases the mutual respect driving the sport forward.

Hamlin thanks his peers and fans

Denny Hamlin expressed deep gratitude toward his fans and fellow drivers following a challenging 2025 NASCAR season. Reflecting on the support he received, Hamlin highlighted the kindness from competitors like William Byron, who notably apologized for causing the caution that affected the championship race outcome. “

That’s what honestly made me feel a ton better… William Byron, you know, saying what he said… I just can’t thank them enough for at least saying the kind words,” Hamlin said. Kyle Larson, the eventual champion, also praised Hamlin.

“I would say he was like the sentimental favorite, going into this weekend, and then for it to play out like it did was depressing for everybody…He’s great for the sport,” Larson said, recognizing Hamlin’s importance to NASCAR’s competitive spirit. Fans, meanwhile, rallied strongly behind Hamlin throughout the season, especially after his emotional win at Las Vegas.

Despite the disappointment in Phoenix, the overwhelming fan support became a source of emotional strength for Hamlin. “The fans themselves have just been overwhelmingly supportive,” he noted, thanking them for standing by him during a season filled with highs and heartbreaking lows.

Hamlin’s message underscores the mutual respect and appreciation that define the close-knit NASCAR community. The support from fans and fellow competitors alike offers a renewed sense of purpose as Hamlin prepares to regroup for another championship pursuit in 2026. But will he manage to finally fulfill his lifelong dream of lifting the Bill France Cup next year? Time will tell.