Chris Gayle, the incoming crew chief for Joe Gibbs Racing’s No. 11 team, appears to have a clear perspective on the challenges ahead. Despite this, Denny Hamlin’s next NASCAR season could be significantly tougher. After 19 years in the Cup Series, Hamlin might not be ready for a complete overhaul but rather contemplating the end of his career.
Hamlin joined forces with Chris Gabehart in 2019, and their six-year partnership formed one of the strongest driver-crew chief duos in NASCAR. Only Alan Gustafson and Chase Elliott’s pairing, which began in 2016, lasted longer. Breaking up this successful collaboration was labeled “shocking,” raising questions about Joe Gibbs Racing’s decision-making.
Hamlin’s NASCAR career, which started in 2005, saw a resurgence after a difficult 2018 season when he went winless and struggled in the standings. Gabehart’s arrival marked a turning point, leading to 13 victories in 2019 and 2020. Over their six years together, Hamlin amassed 22 wins, led 6,072 laps, and reached the Championship 4 three times. Their success seemed poised to deliver the elusive Cup Series title, but now that dream appears to be fading.
The situation also raises concerns about Hamlin’s future in NASCAR. In a recent video, NASCAR analyst Eric Estepp questioned why Hamlin, with nearly two decades of experience, was not consulted about this major change. Estepp criticized Joe Gibbs Racing for blindsiding Hamlin, stating, “Denny Hamlin is 44 years old. JGR didn’t even involve him in the decision! He deserves that respect.”
With this unexpected news, Hamlin faces numerous challenges. Aside from his driving duties, he manages the 23XI Racing team and is embroiled in a legal battle with NASCAR. Estepp speculated that the new crew chief arrangement might ignite fresh motivation but could also push Hamlin closer to retirement. He added, “Chris Gabehart moving to a competition director role benefits JGR overall, but the No. 11 team may face early struggles as Hamlin adjusts to a new dynamic late in his career.”
Chris Gayle, who replaces Gabehart, brings significant experience as a JGR crew chief since 2013, with 37 Xfinity Series wins and a 2022 championship alongside Ty Gibbs. However, Gayle’s history of developing rookie drivers contrasts with Hamlin’s veteran status. Despite his concerns, Hamlin emphasized the need for honest feedback, saying, “I’ve told Chris Gayle not to treat me with kid gloves. I need accountability to stay at my best.”
Hamlin is committed to making this change work, but the true impact of this decision will only become clear when the 2025 season begins.
