Denny Hamlin Under Siege Kevin Harvick Fires Back at Critics, Defends No. 11 Star
NASCAR legend Kevin Harvick has stepped up to defend Denny Hamlin, who has faced relentless scrutiny from fans and the media following his third-place finish in the Cook Out Clash at Bowman Gray Stadium.
As the co-owner of 23XI Racing alongside NBA icon Michael Jordan, Hamlin has endured a tumultuous offseason, battling legal disputes against NASCAR. Despite these distractions, he remained laser-focused on one goal—winning races.
Overcoming Adversity: Hamlin’s Performance at the Clash
Hamlin showcased determination and resilience at the Clash. Initially struggling in practice rounds, he rebounded by winning his heat race, leading multiple laps, and securing a podium finish.
His ability to adapt and excel under pressure demonstrated why he remains one of NASCAR’s top competitors. But instead of praise, Hamlin has continued to be the subject of controversy—a trend that Harvick believes is unfair and unwarranted.
Kevin Harvick Calls Out Critics: “Denny Hamlin is an Easy Target.”
During a recent episode of his podcast “Happy Hour,” Harvey addressed the constant backlash against Hamlin, stating:
“We’re all going to question Denny Hamlin, right? That’s just the easy target.”
Harvick elaborated that no matter how well Hamlin performs, he remains a lightning rod for criticism:
“Everybody wants to put the blame, question, whatever it is, on Denny.
But you can’t deny the fact that they came out of the gate: first practice, horrible, couldn’t get out of their own way. Second practice, fastest. Qualifies up front, wins his heat race, leads a lot of the race, puts himself in position.”
“A lot of people don’t give Denny Hamlin credit for how he compartmentalizes everything. He shuts out the noise and gets the job done.”
Chris Gabehart: The Mastermind Behind Hamlin’s Strategy
Harvick also highlighted the crucial role of crew chief Chris Gabehart in Hamlin’s success.
Gabehart has been instrumental in keeping Hamlin laser-focused, ensuring he can transition from his responsibilities at 23XI Racing to being a dominant force on the track.
“When he needs to shift his focus from 23XI and everything that’s going on with the lawsuit and his drivers over there not having enough sponsorship on his car… he has to rely on Chris Gabehart to set up his driving style and lead the team.”
Harvick believes that Gabehart’s strategic expertise will not only benefit Hamlin but also elevate all teams within Joe Gibbs Racing (JGR).
Silencing the Doubters: Hamlin’s Statement Performance
Harvick pointed out that Hamlin’s performance at Bowman Gray Stadium should put an end to doubts surrounding his ability to compete at an elite level:
“They came right out and served notice that not much has changed. The 11 car is in order.”
With a strong start to the season, Hamlin has shifted the narrative—at least for now.
“Performance trumps it all. This weekend, Denny Hamlin served notice that things aren’t really going to change—we’re still going to be contenders.”
What’s Next for Denny Hamlin?
While Hamlin may have silenced some critics with his top-tier performance, the NASCAR world is unforgiving. His ability to maintain this momentum and deliver consistent results will be the true test.
Will Hamlin continue to prove his doubters wrong? Or will controversy follow him throughout the season? One thing is certain—all eyes remain on the No. 11 car.
