Joe Gibbs Racing Announces Denny Hamlin’s Replacement Following Retirement Announcement
Huntersville, NC — November 6, 2024– In a surprising yet anticipated turn of events, Joe Gibbs Racing (JGR) officially announced today that Denny Hamlin, one of the team’s most accomplished and long-standing drivers, will retire from full-time racing at the end of the 2024 NASCAR Cup Series season. The announcement comes after months of speculation regarding Hamlin’s future, with many pundits predicting the decision given the 43-year-old’s growing interest in expanding his ownership role in NASCAR and his evolving career outside of the racecar.
Hamlin, who has driven the iconic No. 11 Toyota for JGR since 2006, delivered a stellar career marked by 48 Cup Series wins, three Daytona 500 victories, and numerous playoff appearances. The Virginia native has been a cornerstone of the organization, helping to elevate the team to prominence alongside teammates like Kyle Busch and Martin Truex Jr. However, after years of racing at the highest level, Hamlin made the decision to step away from the driver’s seat and transition into a new phase of his career.
“I’ve always said I would walk away when I felt the time was right, and after a lot of reflection, I feel this is that moment,” Hamlin said in a statement. “Racing has been my passion, and it has been an honor to represent Joe Gibbs Racing all these years. But now, it’s time to focus on the next chapter, which includes growing my business interests and being more involved in the strategic side of NASCAR.”
Replacement Driver Announced.
Following the announcement of Hamlin’s retirement, Joe Gibbs Racing wasted no time in naming his replacement. The team revealed that 26-year-old Christopher Bell, currently a rising star in the Cup Series, will take over the reins of the No. 11 car starting in 2025. Bell, who has been with JGR since 2020, has shown immense promise and already secured multiple wins, including a dramatic victory in the 2023 Round of 8 race at Martinsville that helped him advance to the Championship 4.
Bell expressed his excitement about the opportunity: “I’ve learned so much from Denny over the past few years, and I’m honored to follow in his footsteps at Joe Gibbs Racing. He’s been an incredible mentor, and I’ll do everything I can to continue the legacy of excellence that he and this organization have built.”
The decision to promote Bell, who has proven his speed and consistency, marks a natural progression for JGR. Bell’s youthful energy and aggressive racing style complement the team’s future ambitions, while Hamlin’s leadership and mentorship have already set a solid foundation for Bell’s success.
A New Era for JGR.
The retirement of Hamlin signals the end of an era for Joe Gibbs Racing but also opens the door to a new chapter. The team is committed to maintaining its competitive edge, with Bell, alongside veteran teammates, poised to keep JGR in championship contention for years to come.
Denny Hamlin will still remain involved with the team as a strategic advisor and co-owner of 23XI Racing, the team he co-founded with Michael Jordan. For now, Hamlin’s focus will shift to shaping the future of NASCAR from a different perspective.
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