Denny Hamlin Honors His “Two Dads” After 60th Career Cup Win

Joe Gibbs Racing veteran Denny Hamlin has shared his thoughts had two father figures that played a massive role in his racing success.

Denny Hamlin Honors His “Two Dads” After 60th Career Cup Win

Denny Hamlin (David Crigger/Bristol Herald Courier via AP)

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Joe Gibbs Racing veteran Denny Hamlin produced a masterclass run in the last ten laps of the Las Vegas Cup race, taking advantage of his fresh tier advantage to win his 60th career win. He has been chasing the milestone since the start of his career and might probably be the last racer to achieve the iconic feat.

Denny Hamlin has a lot of individuals to credit for his success, starting from his parents who sold everything he had to make his dream possible. The impressive form he is in the 2025 season is the product of his determination to win his maiden title, with his father being seriously ill and fighting for his life.

In his post-race interview the No:11 JGR racer was very emotional about his father’s investment in his career and how much Hamlin Sr. sacrificed for him. He also highlighted the involvement of late JD Gibbs and now Joe Gibbs, being the father figure he needs in the road, taking the responsibility over from his dad.

My dad said to JD a long time ago that ‘He’s yours now. I got him to this point but look after (him). JD was my road dad, my track dad. When J.D. passed, it’s more of Joe now. I think that father figures are really, really important to make sure you do the right things… They’re the ones that kind of keep you in the lane of life.

Denny Hamlin said after Las Vegas race.

The 44-year-old racer admitted that having father figures in life is very important as they keep him grounded and keep him in the right lane. He feels lucky to have two such figures in his life at the moment, who gives their full backing to help him achieve his dreams and he appreciate this support group he has.

They are your bumpers. I know I do outlandish things and say outlandish things at times, but I always know that eventually I have to answer to the higher power. And on earth here it is Joe. So, I always appreciate that he lets me be me. He never asks me to change and probably should at times. I’ve got two dads. One is at home and one is here.

Denny Hamlin added.

Denny Hamlin admits milestone win was humbling

In his post-race interview on the track, the Joe Gibbs Racinh driver talked emotionally to the fans thanking for the support and was in tears, unlike the smug expression he often carries. The last 15 laps of the race were pretty energy draining for him and he was overwhelmed after finally crossing the line.

Denny Hamlin
Denny Hamlin (Via newsminimalist.com)

Hey guys, I wish I had more energy, but I just can’t believe what had happened here at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, those last 10-15 laps, I can’t process it, I just don’t know what happened.

Denny Hamlin said.

He gave everything his had in the final moments to secure the race win and he finds it as a humbling moment. The way fans cheered him after the race, unlink the usual boos made the day more special for the veteran.  

I drove it as hard as I could, and to get this win, my 60th, it’s very humbling, and I just want to say thank you to all the fans that cheered after the race, that meant so much to me, and I can’t wait to see y’all next week.

Denny Hamlin added.

The comments from the TRD shows last Sunday’s events will always remain in his mind and the momentum he has gained with the win ahead of the playoffs won’t be matched by anyone. It would be interesting to see if he can convert this to a Cup champion win at Phoenix.

Also Read: Richard Petty Declares Denny Hamlin Has the “Best Chance He’s Ever Had” to Win the Cup Series