Joe Gibbs gives the latest update on Denny Hamlin’s contract extension

Denny Hamlin’s contract with JGR runs through the end of this year.

NASCAR’s behind-the-scenes drama often rivals the excitement on the racetrack. Joe Gibbs, the man steering Joe Gibbs Racing (JGR), now offers insight into the contract talks with star driver Denny Hamlin. Gibbs expressed his optimism about the talks.

Speaking to Sirexum Radio, Gibbs revealed, “My hope is we’re kinda moving forward with all of that… Hopefully there’s going to be something to announce here real quick.” His words carry the weight of anticipation, hinting at a positive outcome on the horizon. The sentiment in Gibbs’ words is crystal clear: they want Hamlin to remain with JGR.

Gibbs added, “We want Denny here… We would love for him to be here and go his entire career and retire here. That’s kinda our dream; that’s what we would like.” It’s a dream shared by many in the racing community, a testament to Hamlin’s significant contributions over 18 full-time seasons.

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Denny Hamlin’s future with Joe Gibbs Racing and his performance has come under scrutiny due to the uncertainty over FedEx sponsorship beyond 2023. With 18 seasons at Joe Gibbs Racing, ongoing contract talks will shape Hamlin’s career and legacy. Winning a Cup title, which he has been dreading for decades, with JGR is still the highest priority for the driver.

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But it’s not just Joe Gibbs who’s singing this tune. Toyota Racing Development (TRD) President David Wilson joined the chorus, asserting, “He will be back. There’s no question in our mind, there’s no question in Joe’s [Gibbs] mind.” These resounding words of assurance echo through the racing world, leaving little room for doubt.

Wilson acknowledges the complexity of the situation. Hamlin wears two hats as both a driver and a team owner. As Wilson puts it, “He’s also a team owner, and given that there has to be alignment for Toyota and Denny across both those considerations, just have some stuff that we’re working on.” In this intricate dance, alignment is the key to a harmonious future.

Denny Hamlin Discusses Contract Renewal With Joe Gibbs Racing

“I intend to for sure. It’s what I want, and I think it’s what Joe Gibbs wants. There’s just a lot of factors that are out of both mine and his hands. Again, if I didn’t own a team, I think this would be done by now pic.twitter.com/lM1k3vWNl4
— Nascar Now (@nascarnowdc) August 21, 2023

Denny Hamlin, at 42 years old, remains a force to be reckoned with on the track. His 50 career wins and consistent top-10 finishes speak volumes about his talent and dedication. As he embarks on the 2023 playoffs, the dream of securing that elusive Cup Series championship is alive.

In the world of NASCAR, where cars roar and dreams take shape, the negotiations between Joe Gibbs and Denny Hamlin are a storyline worth following. The desire to see Hamlin retire in the JGR colors is a shared vision, one that could redefine the future of this racing legend. The checkered flag of the contract talks may be nearing, and fans are eagerly awaiting the outcome.