Denny Hamlin’s pursuit of his 60th NASCAR Cup Series victory is gaining momentum. At the 2025 Enjoy Illinois 300 at World Wide Technology Raceway, Hamlin secured his 59th career win, edging closer to the coveted milestone. The victory not only solidified his position in the Round of 12 but also put him on the verge of tying him with Kevin Harvick for 10th on the all-time wins list. With his contract extension through 2027, Hamlin’s focus remains on clinching that 60th win and breaking another record held by NASCAR legend Jimmie Johnson.

In 2012, Jimmie Johnson reached a significant milestone in his illustrious career by securing his 60th NASCAR Cup Series victory at Texas Motor Speedway. This win was part of a remarkable season where he showcased dominance, leading numerous laps and clinching multiple victories. As of 2025, Johnson continues to be involved in the sport, now as the majority owner of Legacy Motor Club, where he aims to foster new talent and contribute to the team’s success. But he also admits that breaking long-held records is not impossible.

Denny Hamlin’s chase and Jimmie Johnson’s enduring impact

In a recent conversation with Marty Smith on the Never Settle podcast, Johnson was asked about the possibility of active drivers reaching 60 career wins and whether Denny Hamlin might be the last to achieve such a feat. Reflecting on his own career, Johnson answered, “I would say that odds are against someone getting to 60. But I came through a generation where no one thought that somebody would win seven championships, and I was able to do that.” However, he also emphasized the unpredictable nature of the sport and the potential for future drivers to defy expectations.

He also recalled a heartwarming memory from the night he secured his 7th NASCAR Cup Series Championship in 2016, tying the legendary Richard Petty and Dale Earnhardt Sr. He reminisced, “Richard Petty, the night I won my seven, stuck his head in the window and said, ‘Records are made to be broken. Go get it done.’ And I don’t know, with hearing that and experiencing what I personally have, you can’t say it’ll never happen.” It underscored the passing of the torch from one era to another, with Petty’s words serving both a recognition of Johnson’s achievements and a reminder of the ever-evolving nature of NASCAR.

He also recounted a memorable encounter with Cale Yarborough, who had previously achieved the rare feat of three consecutive championships from 1976 to 1978. He recalled, “I met Cale Yarborough before I went off the stage after tying him in three championships. And he’s like, ‘Son, I never thought anybody would ever get here. Congratulations.’ So I just don’t want to fall into that trap.” This exchange highlighted the mutual respect between champions of different eras and the shared understanding of the dedication required to reach such heights.

Despite the challenges facing current drivers, Johnson remained optimistic about the future of NASCAR. He noted that advancements in technology, team dynamics, and driver development could open new avenues for success. As he put it, “And as time goes on and sport goes on, who knows what we’re going to be racing 10, 15 years from now, 50 years from now. It’s hard to say.” This forward-thinking perspective suggests that while the road to 60 wins may be steep, it is not insurmountable.

While acknowledging the difficulties of surpassing monumental records, he also recognizes the potential for new drivers to carve their own path to greatness. From the golden years of Dale Earnhardt Sr. to the current victories of Denny Hamlin, the possibility of records being broken remains a testament to the enduring spirit of competition and excellence.

Jimmie Johnson weighs in on NASCAR’s Dover move

The NASCAR All-Star Race has always been a showcase for risk-taking, drama, and adrenaline-fueled action. From its 1985 debut at Charlotte Motor Speedway to stops at Atlanta, Texas, Bristol, and North Wilkesboro, the race has thrived on chaotic moments and fan excitement. But the latest decision to host the 2026 All-Star Race at Dover Motor Speedway has left many shaking their heads in denial. Jimmie Johnson didn’t mince his words, saying, “I’m scratching my head on that one.” He knows Dover well, having won there 11 times, but insists, “It’s not the type of venue the All-Star Race will shine at.” 

Johnson elaborated on why Dover may not deliver the spectacle fans expect. “It’s not Dover.” The track’s tight confines and high speeds make reckless contact dangerous, curbing the chaos that the All-Star Race is known for. North Wilkesboro, by contrast, has recently revitalized the race with short-track drama and an energetic fan atmosphere, highlighting the difference a venue can make. Johnson’s critique suggests that location isn’t just tradition; it directly affects the style of racing and the excitement of the event.

The stakes of the All-Star Race also come into question. Johnson feels the prize money no longer incentivizes the daring moves that made the race special. “I mean there’s a million on the line. Should be five,” he said. At its core, Johnson’s concern is about preserving the essence of the race that feels different from a regular Sunday. Without chaos, risk, and a prize that truly motivates, Dover may struggle to capture the magic that once defined the event.