NASCAR veteran Kevin Harvick has voiced his disappointment in Denny Hamlin’s lackluster beginning to the Cup Series playoffs. Hamlin, a perennial championship contender, has struggled to find his footing in the opening rounds, leaving many, including Harvick, perplexed.
Hamlin’s playoff woes began at Atlanta, where an ill-fated strategy call resulted in a 24th-place finish and a meager 13 points toward the playoffs. The disappointment continued at Watkins Glen, as Hamlin was involved in an on-track incident with Brad Keselowski, sending him into the outside wall and relegating him to a 23rd-place finish.
Harvick attributed Hamlin’s struggles to distractions, particularly the ongoing charter dispute as part of 23XI Racing’s ownership group. “When you’re trying to juggle being a driver and an owner, it’s tough to focus on both,” Harvick said. “Denny’s got a lot on his plate right now, and it’s affecting his performance on the track.”
Harvick also criticized Hamlin’s decision-making, citing the Atlanta strategy mishap as an example. “You can’t make mistakes like that in the playoffs and expect to contend for a championship,” Harvick said.
Harvick emphasized the importance of momentum in NASCAR, particularly during the playoffs. “When you start slow, it’s tough to build momentum,” Harvick explained. “Denny’s got his work cut out for him now.”
Despite his struggles, Hamlin remains mathematically alive in the playoff hunt. However, he trails Ty Gibbs by six points heading into the weekend at Bristol, a track where Hamlin has historically struggled.
To salvage his playoff hopes, Harvick believes Hamlin must refocus and make better decisions on the track. “Denny’s a talented driver, but he needs to get his head back in the game,” Harvick said. “He can’t afford another poor finish.”
Hamlin’s teammate, Kyle Busch, offered words of encouragement, stating, “Denny’s got this. He’s been in tough spots before and always bounces back.”
Denny Hamlin’s uncharacteristic start to the NASCAR Cup Series playoffs has raised eyebrows throughout the racing community. Kevin Harvick’s criticism highlights the challenges Hamlin faces in balancing driving and ownership responsibilities. As the playoffs intensify, Hamlin must rediscover his form and make crucial adjustments to remain a championship contender.
