In recent discussions about the future of NASCAR Cup Series Shockveteran driver Denny Hamlin stressed the importance of restoring the event has Daytona International Speedway. Hamlin’s comments follow turbulent event race has Bowman Gray Stadiumhighlighting both his passion for the sport and the strategic value he sees in organizing the Clash to Daytona. The topic has garnered attention as fans and competitors debate the direction of the competition. opening of the seasonthe Denny Hamlin Daytona Clash emerging as the focal point of these conversations.
Diverse opinions surface after chaotic Bowman Gray clash
The unofficial start of NASCAR Cup Series season at Bowman Gray Stadium delivered a spectacular race, culminating in an emotional RFK Racing victory for Ryan Preece. However, the aggressive style of racing sparked mixed reactions among drivers and observers, prompting calls for possible changes to the format and location of the event.
Joe Gibbs RacingDenny Hamlin was open to variety when it came to placessaying that ultimately entertainment value for fans is the priority for sports decision-makers. He highlighted the event’s unique positioning on the sporting calendar, highlighting NASCAR’s opportunity to capture audiences when few other major outdoor sports are active.
There’s a reason why most outdoor sports aren’t played this time of year. I don’t know, as long as it was entertaining I don’t care.
Denny Hamlin said via Bob Pockrass of FOX Sports.
Despite the spectacle at Bowman Gray, Hamlin’s traditionalist side argues for a return to Daytona, a location he believes best energizes attendees and fans in anticipation of the game. Daytona 500.
Balancing Roles: Driver, Owner, and Passion for Daytona
Hamlin, who also co-owns 23XI Raceexpressed conflicting feelings about the Clash’s current home. While the team owner in him admits to not preferring Daytona due to logistical risks, the driver and fan in him strongly associates place with the heritage and excitement of NASCAR leading into the main event of the season.
I’m an old school person, I feel like as a car owner I hate the Clash at Daytona, but I can tell you, as a competitor, and I think for the sport the best place is to have it at Daytona to generate some excitement for the 500.
Denny Hamlin added.
Hamlin warned that the omission of Daytona as the site of the Clash represented a loss in cultivating enthusiasm ahead of the Daytona 500, hinting at the venue’s enduring legacy and influence on the sport’s identity.
I think it’s a big lack of content we have (that creates excitement for the Daytona 500). There are positives to that as well, because you’re coming back to short track, certainly, a circuit that’s been around for a long time.
Denny Hamlin said.
Crew chief Chris Gayle confident in Hamlin’s 2026 prospects
The confidence in Hamlin is echoed by his crew chief Chris Gayle, who expressed his strong belief in Hamlin’s ability to contend for the 2026 edition. championshipeven after a turbulent offseason marked by the loss of families and difficulties with the charter prosecution process.
Oh, sure. I think he will succeed one hundred percent. I have the utmost confidence that this will happen. Obviously, yes, he had a very eventful offseason, right? It’s just remarkable the things he had to endure and go through.
Chris Gayle said.
According to Gayle, the Clash gave the No. 11 team, including Hamlin, the chance to shake off offseason rust, a process that remains especially important given the three-month break preceding the kickoff event. Adapting to a unique racing format like the Clash comes with its own set of challenges for drivers and teams, especially when it comes to regaining momentum after such a break.
So, I think it’s just going to take a while to get there, right? The Clash, I think for all of us, we took the rust off a little bit. You sit for three months, and it’s a unique format, it’s hard to get completely back to where you need to be at an event.
Chris Gayle added.
The road ahead for NASCAR and the Clash
As discussions continue about the future format and location of the NASCAR showdownHamlin’s perspective highlights the broader considerations at play, not only for fans and tradition, but also for the excitement generated around the start of the racing season. The debate illustrates the ongoing search for a balance between innovation and respect for its roots. With input from Hamlin, crew chief Chris Gayle and other prominent figures, preparation for the Daytona 500 and the evolving structure of the NASCAR season remain key topics likely to shape the narrative of the 2026 competition and the broader motorsports community.
Denny Hamlin on The Clash and if he has a future at Bowman Gray: @NASCARONFOX pic.twitter.com/ybTEQBSyYh
-Bob Pockrass (@bobpockrass) February 5, 2026
