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Joe Gibbs Drops Massive Verdict Amidst Denny Hamlin’s Career Woes

Published 09/04/2023, 7:47 PM EDT

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Everyone expected Denny Hamlin to hit the ground running this playoff season, but fate threw a spanner in the works. Despite bagging in both stages, victory slipped through his fingers due to a string of unfortunate events: a pit stop hiccup with a wheel gone rogue forcing a double pit, and a twist of fate where he found himself sandwiched between Kyle Busch and Todd Gilliland.

But just when the fans thought the storm had passed and were ready to move forward, a bolt from the blue strikes from the Joe Gibbs Racing quarters, promising to turn the tables on Hamlin and Co.

What’s the situation surrounding Denny Hamlin’s contract with the JGR team?

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As the playoff season’s curtain-raiser unfolded at Darlington, every driver, not least Denny Hamlin, was looking forward to clinching the inaugural race victory. However, even the best-laid plans often go awry, as a series of blunders held Hamlin back, relegating him to a P25 finish despite ruling the roost in both stages.

Amidst all of this chaos and disappointment, beneath the surface of the races, the grapevine was lately abuzz with whispers about Hamlin’s future with JGR. Would he jump ship to helm his own 23XI squad, or might he be spotted behind the wheel of a non-Toyota car? The news is finally out, courtesy of the renowned Fox Sports journalist, Bob Pockrass. Taking to Twitter, he revealed that Joe Gibbs Racing has inked a multiyear deal, keeping Hamlin on their books.

The man in the spotlight, Hamlin, could hardly contain his elation. “Joe Gibbs Racing has been my home for almost 20 years now. My relationship with Joe (Gibbs), my team, and everyone at JGR means a lot to me. We have accomplished so much together over the years. I’m excited to finally announce this so we can put all our focus on chasing the championship.”

The development also puts to bed any speculation regarding Hamlin’s 23XI team. Since they ride Toyotas hand in glove with Joe Gibbs Racing, the alliance remains unbroken. In fact, not to be left in the shadows, Joe Gibbs himself chimed in, shedding light on the renewed commitment.

Joe Gibbs reflects on the monumental contract extension with Denny Hamlin

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After much ado and whispers in the corridors, JGR and Denny Hamlin have finally put pen to paper, sealing their contract extension. With the ink still drying and ties between them stronger than ever, the man of the hour, Joe Gibbs, stepped up to the plate to weigh in.

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Reflecting on their storied journey, Gibbs mused, “It is amazing to think it has been almost 20 years since J.D. (Gibbs) first saw him race and we signed him to that first contract. He has been a big part of Joe Gibbs Racing ever since then, and we look forward to that continuing for years to come.”

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With the die now cast and Hamlin set for another lap with Joe Gibbs Racing, we’re all ears for your take on this headline-grabbing revelation.

Watch This Story | Denny Hamlin Blames Tony Stewart for Letting Down Slowest Kevin Harvick

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Written by:

Neha Dwivedi

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Neha Dwivedi is a NASCAR Writer for EssentiallySports. Her ability to capture the spirit of the exhilarating races and relay the enthusiasm to her readers distinguishes her as a sports journalist. Neha's articles strike a nice balance between technical accuracy and story-telling.
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Edited by:

Sharan Nair