Denny Hamlin, the Joe Gibbs Racing driver, addressed the aggressive style of competition displayed during Thursday night’s NASCAR Cup Series exhibition at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. He emphasized how drivers engaged in fierce battles while maintaining control, avoiding the major collisions often seen in such intense races. Hamlin’s insights came during a post-race interview with FOX Sports reporter Bob Pockrass, providing a detailed assessment of the action at the event.
Pressure and Precision Define Racing After Pit Stops
Hamlin described the race as highly competitive, particularly following pit stops when the field tightened and drivers pressed harder. Despite the aggressive driving, the event did not produce significant wrecks, signaling a balance between assertiveness and driver skill.
Our Duel was aggressive, especially after the pit stop,
Hamlin told Pockrass.
It really had a few moments before the pit stop. I thought we were just as aggressive as what I saw on TV from the first group. We just unfortunately didn’t wreck.
Drivers treated the exhibition with urgency because track position is crucial and the laps are limited. Throughout the competition, racers remained side-by-side but managed risks carefully, demonstrating strategic control amid intense physical racing.
Impact of Track Conditions on Vehicle Stability
When asked about the perceived difference in racing control compared to previous years, Hamlin suggested that the feeling of increased speed and instability resulted from multiple minor factors rather than any single major alteration. He noted that as the track ages and undergoes wear, its surface characteristics change subtly, affecting how cars handle during high-speed cornering and acceleration.
I don’t know. It feels faster this year. There are probably no facts or data to back that up. The track ages another year. It’s just a few small differences that can make the cars a little more unstable than they were in the past.
These small shifts in grip and track texture force drivers to adjust their approaches to maintain control, especially in an environment as tightly packed as the Coliseum circuit.
Role of Aerodynamics and Driver Techniques in Racing Dynamics
Hamlin also referenced a recent aerodynamic modification involving a “wicker” device on the side of the car’s A-post, which changes airflow around the rear spoiler. This adjustment may contribute to how the car reacts in turbulent air, particularly in close-quarter racing conditions.
We obviously have that wicker on the side of our A-post that deflects a little air from the spoiler. That could contribute to it.
Despite such equipment changes, Hamlin emphasized that the aggressive on-track maneuvers by drivers had a greater impact on racing dynamics. He pointed out that many of the close calls resulted from intense pushes and side drafting tactics rather than mechanical factors alone.
Most of the ones I saw were just from hard pushes and hard side drafts.
Techniques like side drafting and bumping are effective for gaining speed but require precise timing to avoid losing vehicle stability. These moves are especially challenging on a narrow, technical circuit like the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum.
Preparation and Insights for the NASCAR Cup Series Season Ahead
Hamlin noted that tire compounds and chassis setups remained mostly unchanged from previous competitions, suggesting that the subtle aerodynamic tweaks and natural track wear played more significant roles in influencing car behavior. The exhibition race functioned as a valuable early test, allowing teams to evaluate equipment performance and driver responses under aggressive race conditions.
This feedback stands to inform strategic decisions and car preparations as the NASCAR Cup Series season approaches, highlighting the ongoing challenge drivers face balancing cautious vehicle management with competitive aggression on the track.
Denny Hamlin on the nature of the racing Thursday and why the cars might be a little bit more out of control. @NASCARONFOX pic.twitter.com/qsahRIV9fB
— Bob Pockrass (@bobpockrass) February 13, 2026
