Denny Hamlin insists Kevin Harvick is an ‘important person’ in NASCAR, likens him to Jeff Gordon and Tony Stewart

Denny Hamlin believes Kevin Harvick is the last legacy driver of the sport.

Denny Hamlin insists Kevin Harvick is an ‘important person’ in NASCAR, likens him to Jeff Gordon and Tony Stewart

Denny Hamlin, Tony Stewart, Jeff Gordon and Kevin Harvick (Images Via IMAGO)

Joe Gibbs Racing’s Denny Hamlin was full of praise for Stewart Haas Racing’s Kevin Harvick ahead of the Homestead Miami race. Hamlin believes Harvick is the last legacy driver of the sport and is an irreplaceable figure of the sport. The 2014 Champion is set to retire at the end of this season, ending his Cup career that started in 2001 after Dale Sr.’s tragic death at Daytona.

He is the second most-winningest active Cup driver behind Kyle Busch and ahead of Hamlin. Harvick will definitely be a first-ballot NASCAR Hall of Fame entrant as soon as he retires, and his leaving will leave a big void in the sport, especially at SHR. The team will miss the legendary driver’s hardworking mentality and leadership capabilities.

Hamlin didn’t have to think twice about highlighting this advantage ahead of 4Ever 400, a race named to honor Harvick, who drives the No:4 Mustang. The 23XI Racing co-owner claimed Harvick is a driver who has the same status in the sport as Four-time champion Jeff Gordon and three-time champion Tony Stewart.

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He’s very calculated, and he likes to be in control, that’s for sure. I really like his style and how he leads. I believe he’s a very important person in the sport. In my opinion, he’s like a Jeff Gordon, Tony Stewart type person in the sport, and when he leaves, you’ll notice he’s gone. I think he’s been a leader in the sport for a long time and may be the last legacy guy we have…

Denny Hamlin said, as reported by Speedway Media.

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Kevin Harvick will still have a lot to offer after retirement

Harvick has planned all his life after retirement, which might include some racing. His primary objective is to finally spend quality time with his family and help his son, Keelan Harvick, thrive in his junior racing career.

Kevin Harvick (Via IMAGO)
Kevin Harvick (Via IMAGO)

He will be part of the Fox Sports NASCAR booth from 2024. Having the champion driver in the booth alongside Mike Joy will be something to watch out for the fans.  He can offer fans a unique perspective of racing every week, something many can’t.

Harvick will be hugely involved in the regional short-track racing series CARS Tour, which he bought with Dale Earnhardt Jr. He will be hoping to allow the younger to showcase their skills against strong opponents with the series, and with his management from KHI will be another pathway for young talents to nurture themselves.

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