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Denny Hamlin reveals level of concern for NASCAR championship race after major mechanical issues at Martinsville

Brian Jones Profile Picby: Brian Jones19 hours agobrianjones_93
Denny Hamlin (72)
Greg Atkins-Imagn Images

Denny Hamlin is going into the NASCAR Cup Series Championship race with a lot of confidence despite the recent mechanical issues with his No. 11 Toyota. On the Actions Detrimental podcast, Hamlin revealed his level of concern for the race after not finishing at Martinsville on Sunday.

“My concern is that over half the playoff races I’ve had mechanical failures,” Denny Hamlin said. “Like five of the nine, I’ve had major mechanical failures. The ones we haven’t, we won. That’s the good news.

“They’re going to bring their best. I’m confident we’re going to be fine, and if we’re not, we’re not. I don’t know. I hope I’m going to do the best I can. I’m going to drive it as fast as I can. But I’m confident this week. I’m not negative in any kind of headspace way. Everything is going to be fine. It’s championship week.”

Hamlin was then asked if he received any clarity on why his car had multiple mechanical issues in the playoffs. “Not yet. I got a text this morning said they’ll explain in the comp meeting,” Hamlin said. “I’ll know after that.”

Denny Hamlin reveals key to winning NASCAR championship

At Martinsville on Sunday, smoke blew out of Hamlin’s car as he was in second place. It was his third DNF of the season due to engine issues. When his day was done, Hamlin talked about the possibility of having engine failure at Phoenix.

“I could be worried, but I can’t do anything about it, so I’m still optimistic,” he said, per NASCAR.com. “We’re gonna put our best foot forward, and hopefully, it’s enough next week. That’s all I can do. “Our performance is good. We’re up front. As long as we can keep it together, we’re fast and capable … I’ve said, come one, come all. I think that I’m gonna have to win next week if I’m gonna win the championship, and we’re gonna come prepared for that.”

Hamlin is one of the four drivers who will be competing for the championship at Phoenix on Sunday. The other three are Hamlin’s Joe Gibbs Racing teammate Chase Briscoe, regular-season champion William Byron, and 2021 champion Kyle Larson.