Tragedy struck the family of NASCAR superstar Denny Hamlin this week as his father, Dennis Hamlin, lost his life in a fire at his home.
NASCAR released a statement offering its condolences to Denny and his family. The organization praised the late Dennis Hamlin for instilling “a love of racing in his son” and for the sacrifices he made to help Denny in his NASCAR career.
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“NASCAR extends its deepest condolences to Denny Hamlin and the entire Hamlin family. Dennis Hamlin instilled a love of racing in his son and made great sacrifices to develop Denny into a world-class talent in the sport. We also continue to offer our thoughts and prayers to Denny’s mother, Mary Lou, and hope for his full recovery.”
Respect and condolences
NASCAR fans from across the country came to pay their respects to Hamlin and his late father:
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“I’m a Larson fan but this season I will be pulling for Denny this is horrible and my condolences to you and your family God bless you and your mom,” one X user said.
“My sorrows for Denny and his family, my tears flow for Dennis’ passing, my prayers go out to Mary Lou and may God’s love and comfort surround them all,” wrote another.
“Dang. Bad loss for Denny Hamlin. RIP to Dennis Hamlin and thoughts of Mary Lou,” wrote a third.
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DAYTONA BEACH, FLORIDA – AUGUST 25: Denny Hamlin, driver of the No. 11 FedEx Cares Toyota, watches qualifying for the NASCAR Cup Series Coke Zero Sugar 400 at Daytona International Speedway on August 25, 2023 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Sean Gardner/Getty Images)Sean Gardner/Getty Images
The 2025 NASCAR Cup Series season saw Hamlin come away with six wins in 35 races – his most in a season since 2020. He then finished second in the Cup Series playoffs behind Kyle Larson.
Hamlin will continue to compete for Joe Gibbs Racing in 2026 while also partnering with Michael Jordan’s 23XI Racing team.
This story was originally published by The yarn on December 30, 2025, where he first appeared in the NASCAR section. Add The Spun as Favorite source by clicking here.
