Denny Hamlin, owner of 23XI Racing, recently celebrated an unprecedented achievement as his team secured three consecutive NASCAR race victories to begin the season, a feat unmatched in over six decades. These wins, achieved at Atlanta, Daytona, and a third distinct track, highlight the team’s adaptability and competitive edge across diverse racing environments.
“Yeah, it’s unbelievable. I’m not going to see it again in my lifetime, someone to go out there and win three races in a row to start the season. Yeah, what a dream start for those guys,”
Hamlin said, underscoring the rarity of such an accomplishment. He explained the challenge of winning at such varied tracks by saying,
“Atlanta is quite a bit different than Daytona in how you drive there, so it’s just getting it done in all kinds of different ways.”
Assessing Momentum Ahead of the Phoenix Race
Looking forward, the upcoming race at Phoenix presents a critical test for 23XI Racing and their driver Tyler Reddick, who has demonstrated remarkable skill in the season’s opening events. Hamlin expressed cautious optimism while noting that Phoenix poses a unique challenge for their team.
“The big test is going to be next week when it goes to a track that he hasn’t had a ton of success at in Phoenix, and that’s where we’re going to know whether this team has got — how big that momentum is,”
Hamlin remarked. The team’s strong performance in qualifying and their disciplined approach during restarts have been key factors in sustaining their success so far.
“Tyler is locked in. Just so poised from qualifying day. You can’t get poles at this type of racetrack unless you just are really disciplined,”
Hamlin added, praising Reddick’s composure and strategic driving, particularly during intense moments following restarts.
The Rarity and Significance of Consecutive Wins at Different Tracks
Hamlin acknowledged the extraordinary nature of winning three races in a row on circuits with distinct characteristics and unpredictable conditions. The element of randomness in these events makes such a streak highly improbable.
“Yeah, that’s why I’m confident in it not happening again of my lifetime, because of the randomness factor of those races. Defying odds, that’s for sure,”
he said, emphasizing the exceptional talent and effort required to reach this milestone.
Tyler Reddick’s Emerging Superstar Status
Hamlin has closely followed Tyler Reddick’s progression from his days in the Truck Series to becoming a primary driver for 23XI Racing. He strongly believes Reddick is evolving into one of NASCAR’s true stars, with few weaknesses remaining in his racing skills.
“He’s complete. The one area that we continue to work on with him is on the short tracks. I think that’s where he can still improve a little bit. But we’re working pretty hard on improving him at those types of tracks,”
Hamlin explained. He noted that Reddick’s overall capabilities have surpassed his own in some respects.
“He’s got a lot of really good things going on. I think it’s just — we’re steadily seeing him continue to get better. What I love to see is the work that he puts in and the things that we provide him for information. He’s soaking it all in and he’s using it and executing it,”
Hamlin said, highlighting Reddick’s dedication and the positive impact of the team’s support.
Discipline and Strategy Behind the Wheel
Discussing Reddick’s racecraft, particularly during road course events, Hamlin praised the driver’s discipline and tactical approach to pacing the competition without overexerting his equipment.
“Yeah, well, when you’ve got the lead, especially on a road course, it’s very easy to pace the field and run the pace that you feel comfortable with making sure no one is going to pass you but also keeping the competition close enough to where it actually burns their car up,”
Hamlin said. He described this calculated approach as an effective form of defense, balancing speed and control.
Hamlin’s Personal Racing Comeback and Physical Condition
Hamlin also shared his experience competing personally in recent races, marking a milestone with a flawless road course performance after several years of challenges.
“I feel good. It’ll definitely be sore tomorrow. But first mistake-free road course for me in six years. It’s freaking amazing. It’s like a win. I’m telling you, this is a win,”
Hamlin revealed, speaking about managing his shoulder during the race and appreciating the significance of his accomplishment.
Building 23XI Racing Into a Historic Team
Reflecting on the significance of 23XI Racing’s rapid rise, Hamlin expressed deep satisfaction at leading a team to such historic success. This is the first team in over 60 years to win the first three races of the NASCAR season, a testament to their hard work and strategic vision.
“Just so gratifying. Obviously when I see Michael afterwards and he’s very appreciative of — he knows the work that I’m doing there to make all this happen, again, it’s very gratifying to see the joy that we’re bringing him at this stage of his life,”
Hamlin said, referring to his co-owner Michael Jordan’s enthusiasm for the team’s achievements.
He described the origins of the team humbly, noting,
“Again, this team had, like, three employees working out of Mike Wheeler’s garage. There was nothing. We had zero. We didn’t buy a team, didn’t do anything. Just built it. This is what we’re doing. It’s pretty amazing.”
Partnership Dynamic Between Hamlin and Michael Jordan
When asked about the collaboration between himself and Michael Jordan, often described as the “money guy,” Hamlin emphasized the strength of their partnership, grounded in mutual respect and clearly defined roles.
“It’s just a perfect partnership. I don’t even know how to explain it. This doesn’t work unless he gives me autonomy to do it,”
Hamlin said. He values the control he has over team operations, stating it was essential for him to have autonomy to ensure accountability and success.
“When the stars aligned and we were able to start this and I was able to get him as a partner, he was — I was just so appreciative of the fact that he says, okay, here’s my percent, here’s your percent, but you’re going to have to build it. You’re going to have to do the work. You’re the boots on the ground. That was what I wanted,”
he added, highlighting the importance of autonomy in their collaboration.
The Future Outlook for 23XI and NASCAR
As 23XI Racing continues its remarkable season, the upcoming challenges, starting with the race at Phoenix, will reveal the depth of their momentum and adaptability. The combination of Hamlin’s leadership, Reddick’s emerging superstar talent, and their strong partnership with Michael Jordan positions the team to remain a dominant force in NASCAR.
This historic start demonstrates not only the effectiveness of Hamlin’s team-building efforts but also signals a shifting landscape where new teams can quickly rise through dedication, strategic management, and skilled driving talent. Fans and competitors alike will be watching closely as the season progresses.
