TC Daily Pit Stop: Hamlin 'Plans to' Return in 2026, But 'Is Going to Need Some Time'; Elliott Named Most Popular Again
TC Daily Pit Stop: Wednesday, November 5, 2025
Denny Hamlin ‘Plans to’ Return in 2026, But ‘Is Going to Need Some Time’
Denny Hamlin’s quest for his first NASCAR Cup Series championship came to a heartbreaking end at Phoenix Raceway on Sunday. After dominating much of the race and appearing poised to finally capture the elusive title, Hamlin’s hopes were dashed when a late caution caused by William Byron’s flat tire forced the race into overtime. The devastating finish left Hamlin visibly crushed, his long-awaited triumph slipping away in the final moments after leading the most laps of the race.
Two days later, Hamlin’s pain was still evident during his appearance at the NASCAR Awards Banquet. Typically sharp and outspoken, the Joe Gibbs Racing driver appeared subdued and emotionally drained. When asked how he was coping, he admitted, “I don’t know. Felt like you’d think.” The loss has clearly taken a toll on the 44-year-old veteran, who confessed that at the moment, he couldn’t even think about getting back into a race car, despite being under contract for 2026. His remarks have raised questions about whether he will return next season or take time away from the sport to recover emotionally.
Hamlin’s uncertainty has stirred speculation across the NASCAR community, with fans and analysts wondering if this could be another shock retirement for Joe Gibbs Racing, reminiscent of Carl Edwards’ sudden exit after his own near-miss in 2016. While Hamlin insists he “plans to” honor his contract, his body language and tone suggest the heartbreak may linger well into the offseason. Whether he returns for a 21st season or not, this latest loss has solidified Hamlin’s legacy as one of NASCAR’s most talented yet star-crossed competitors, still searching for the one title that continues to slip through his fingers.
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Elliott, Allgaier, Caruth Named NASCAR Most Popular Drivers
The 2025 NASCAR Awards Banquet in Scottsdale, Arizona, celebrated the champions and standout performers from the Cup, Xfinity, and Craftsman Truck Series, with one of the evening’s biggest highlights being the announcement of the fan-voted National Motorsports Press Association’s Most Popular Driver Awards.
In a result that surprised few, each of the 2024 honorees successfully defended their titles, as Chase Elliott, Justin Allgaier, and Rajah Caruth were once again crowned the Most Popular Drivers in their respective series.
For Chase Elliott, the win marked his eighth consecutive Most Popular Driver Award in the NASCAR Cup Series, further solidifying his position as one of the sport’s most beloved figures. In a heartfelt video message, Elliott thanked fans for their unwavering loyalty, saying their support “blows me away every year” and expressing deep gratitude for their passion, even through the sport’s highs and lows.
The Elliott family’s legacy in NASCAR fandom continues to grow, as Chase’s eight awards add to the 16 earned by his father, Bill Elliott, bringing the family’s total to 24.
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Hendrick Motorsports Cements Legacy With 15th Cup Championship
AJ Allmendinger Competing in 2026 Rolex 24 with Meyer Shank Racing
Larson Won the Title, But Who Tops the Final Power Rankings?
Brandon McSwain Named 2026 Crew Chief for Ross Chastain, Trackhouse
Kyle Larson’s Complex 2nd Championship That Left Him Happy and Sad
Denny Hamlin ‘Shocked’ By Latest NASCAR Cup Championship Heartbreak
Kyle Larson Out-Strategies Dominant Denny Hamlin for Second Title