Under the blazing Arizona sun, four drivers stand on the brink of NASCAR immortality. Chase Briscoe: the one who wasn’t supposed to make it this far, chasing a fairytale ending. William Byron: the quiet assassin trying to seal his most dominant season yet. Kyle Larson: the 2021 champion eyeing redemption and a second title for Hendrick Motorsports. And then there’s Denny Hamlin. The veteran. The man who’s come so close, so many times, that his quest for a championship feels almost mythical. But this year, something feels different. Beneath the usual confidence and composure, Hamlin is carrying a heavier story. And it has turned even his fiercest critics into believers, and left the NASCAR world holding its breath.

Denny Hamlin’s emotional journey to the championship final

Denny Hamlin’s 2025 season has been marked by resilience, determination, and moments of brilliance. Despite mechanical setbacks and late race challenges, Hamlin secured his spot in the Championship 4 by winning the pivotal South Point 400 at Las Vegas, his 60th career Cup Series victory. This win was a turning point, showcasing his ability to overcome adversity and compete at the highest level.

Throughout the season, Hamlin battled a range of issues, from power steering failures to pit stop troubles, but maintained consistent performance to stay in title contention. As the longest-active driver without a Cup Series championship, Hamlin’s pursuit of the elusive title has been a central storyline.

His emotional celebration in Las Vegas resonated with fans and commentators. “Obviously, just want to say ‘hi’ to my dad and family back at home,” Hamlin said post-race, his voice cracking with emotion. “We were hoping to get 60 [wins] today, but didn’t think we were. Just put the pedal down those last 10 laps and made it happen.”

Now, as the championship weekend looms with Denny entering as the favorite, the story has taken on a deeply personal tone. His father, who has been battling a severe illness, won’t be able to attend the race. It’s this layer of vulnerability that has reshaped how fans see him.

For years, Hamlin was viewed as the talented villain of the Cup Series. Always close, never crowned. But this season, his grit and humanity have finally shattered that perception. As he prepares for his final shot at glory in Phoenix, NASCAR fans aren’t just watching a driver chase a trophy. Instead, they’re witnessing a son race for something far more profound.

Fans rally behind Hamlin’s emotional quest

NASCAR fans have been deeply moved by Denny Hamlin’s journey, underscoring his legendary 20-plus-year career. Having won marquee events like the Daytona 500 and Coca-Cola 600 while co-owning 23XI Racing with Michael Jordan, Hamlin has achieved almost everything. Except the elusive Cup Series championship! Now, given the dynamics of his father’s health, one fan exclaimed, “Jesus. I was already pulling for Denny but this just makes it so much bigger,” highlighting Hamlin’s enduring status as a sports icon despite the missing title.

The sacrifices made by Hamlin’s parents have also not gone unnoticed. Denny Hamlin’s NASCAR career owes much to the immense sacrifices made by his father. Dennis Hamlin took out multiple mortgages and maxed out credit cards to support Denny’s racing dream, even nearly losing their home.

Hamlin has, time and again, shared how his parents worked normal jobs but used every resource to keep his career alive. This fact prompted another fan to comment, “Well, now I’d seem like an asshole if I was upset he won. Not going to root for him but I’m fine if he does win it.”

Fans also expressed empathy for Hamlin’s emotional state, with one sharing, “Byron is far and away my favorite driver but I’m pulling for Denny this year… I lost my dad to cancer when I was younger so I can relate to what he’s going through. Hopefully his dad gets to break that cigar from MJ out of the box.” William Byron’s strong 2025 season, including leading most laps, builds added tension to the finale, making him a favorite to win the championship. However, Hamlin‘s story has garnered support even from rival fan bases.

Many are rooting for a storybook ending. “I really want Denny to win the race, win the championship, and retire during his interview. Give me the full walk off and close the chapter on his generation of drivers,” wrote a fan. Denny Hamlin, however, in July this year, signed a multi-year extension with Joe Gibbs Racing. But, if he wins a championship this year, he might consider retiring to focus on his personal life, including looking after his dad and newborn son.

Others acknowledged the emotional toll, noting, “Damn that’s actually extremely depressing. His dad is so sick that he can’t even travel to see it.” Love him or hate him, Hamlin’s passion and impact on NASCAR is undeniable, making him a beloved figure with a legacy few can match.

This powerful wave of fan support underscores that NASCAR is about more than just speed. Denny Hamlin’s championship chase has transcended competition, reminding everyone that behind every helmet is a deeply human story of sacrifice, resilience, and love that fuels the race. Now, it is only Hamlin’s championship to lose.