Kevin Harvick Raises Significant Denny Hamlin NASCAR Championship Concerns

Kevin Harvick has cast doubts on Denny Hamlin’s ability to win his first NASCAR Cup Series championship. Despite a Hall of Fame-worthy career, the championship has always been out of Hamlin’s reach. Initially, 2024 seemed poised to break that streak, with Hamlin winning three of the first 11 races and emerging as a strong contender.

However, unfortunately, Hamlin’s performance took a nosedive over the summer. In the subsequent 17 races, he failed to secure a single win, and his results in recent races—24th at Atlanta and 23rd at Watkins Glen—have left him six points below the cutline as he heads into the Round of 16 finale at Bristol.

Harvick, speaking on his “Happy Hour” podcast, focused on Hamlin’s season and historical struggles in the playoffs. He explained:

“The thing about Denny has always seemed that he’s handled [pressure well]. He’s got a lot of things that he can handle well off the racetrack. And still get in the car and perform. But he’s never gotten to the point of being able to handle it well and win a championship.

“That’s the part I really thought was gonna be different this year. But when we went to the very first freaking [playoff] race, we’re right back into questioning that.

“And as much as we can talk about the performance and how great the team is, the very first decision that was made in the playoffs opens that question back up. We’re gonna find out how strong they are right now. I expect them to go to Bristol and to be able to perform. But you gotta put the whole thing together.”

Hamlin’s historical success at Bristol offers a glimmer of hope. He has won at the track multiple times, including a victory in the spring race. Hamlin himself remains optimistic about his chances, commenting to the media:

“Qualifying will be important, certainly. But I think just run top-five all stages, finish top-five in the race, get a 47-point day or so. That’ll be plenty.

“But I’m planning on going there and winning.”