Denny Hamlin, co-owner of 23XI Racing and veteran NASCAR driver, spoke recently about the team’s strong start to the season, highlighted by two wins secured by teammate Tyler Reddick. This success has positioned 23XI Racing favorably in the championship points early on. Hamlin discussed his practice performance and the continuing effort to translate strong runs into consistent race-day results.
Reflecting on his own performance compared to the car’s capability, Hamlin stated,
“The car is a little better than the driver right now. We’re just working on it, slowly but surely.”
He noted that the team’s car managed to maintain a faster pace over longer runs than it had previously at this track, though sustaining that level during the race remains a focus.
Consistent Preparation and Approaching Phoenix
Hamlin emphasized that every track and race weekend carries equal importance for points in the season, with no particular event prioritized over another.
“They all count. This one counts just as much as Phoenix and Vegas. You just try to focus your efforts on the places where you think you can win. We try to be at our best every time we show up,”
he said. Looking ahead to Phoenix, Hamlin mentioned the continued use of the same tire compound and the potential influence of increased horsepower on race dynamics.
“I’m not sure. I think the added horsepower might have some effect on it,”
he remarked, acknowledging that teams are constantly adapting their setups as more data is gathered.
Recalling last fall’s challenge at Phoenix, Hamlin admitted it was a difficult weekend for the team but expressed confidence for improvement.
“It was certainly a tough weekend for us. For us, it’s about going back and putting together another strong performance. We should go there with high expectations,”
he stated.
Managing Tire Wear Amid New Challenges
Tire wear has become a significant factor in race strategy, especially on road courses where softer tires now require more careful saving. Hamlin explained that drivers increasingly depend on simulator sessions and data analysis to manage this challenge effectively. He highlighted changes brought by NASCAR and Goodyear pushing softer tire compounds that cause steep performance drops during runs.
“We didn’t used to worry much about tire wear on road courses. With NASCAR and Goodyear pushing softer tires, we’re seeing multi-second falloff,”
he said, underscoring that tire management plays a far bigger role than in previous seasons.
When comparing this year to last, Hamlin did not perceive a significant change in tire degradation, adding,
“I didn’t really notice it being worse, honestly,”
while noting that cars generally lose grip after about ten laps.
Securing Early Wins and Dealing with Legal Issues
23XI Racing’s two victories to begin the season place the team in an advantageous points position. Hamlin acknowledged the positive impact of a potential third win, stating,
“It would mean a big points lead, for sure.”
He viewed the wins as a product of skill and preparation rather than luck.
“Winning the first two races is a blessing, but it’s not a fluke,”
he asserted, also highlighting Tyler Reddick’s consistent top-tier performances,
“When we come here, he expects to be a top-three or top-four guy.”
In addition to on-track matters, Hamlin addressed the ongoing legal dispute between Joe Gibbs Racing and Chris Gabehart, who has been accused of taking proprietary information, an allegation Gabehart denies. Hamlin stressed the critical importance of safeguarding team data, saying,
“It’s important for teams to protect their information because there’s no going back. If proprietary information gets out, that’s it.”
Outlook for 23XI Racing and the Season Ahead
The early momentum from 23XI Racing, coupled with strategic adaptations in car setup and tire management, will be key factors as the team approaches upcoming races like Phoenix. Hamlin’s emphasis on consistent preparation and careful focus underlines 23XI’s commitment to contending throughout the season. Meanwhile, the legal situation involving Joe Gibbs Racing remains a significant off-track development that could influence team operations moving forward.
With the competition intensifying and teams adjusting to evolving conditions, Denny Hamlin and 23XI Racing face a critical period that will test their ability to maintain pace, manage equipment effectively, and protect their competitive edge.
"If somehow your information gets leaked, there's no going back." @dennyhamlin doesn't mince words while speaking about the JGR, Chris Gabehart lawsuit. #NASCAR pic.twitter.com/nCE33M84Ak
— Frontstretch (@Frontstretch) February 28, 2026
