Chase Briscoe recently voiced his admiration for teammate Denny Hamlin’s commitment and dedication to the sport, shortly after Hamlin signed a major multi-year contract extension with Joe Gibbs Racing (JGR) in July 2025. Speaking ahead of the Brickyard 400 at Indianapolis, Briscoe emphasized how Hamlin’s work ethic and leadership have become a powerful influence across the entire JGR team.
At 44 years old, Hamlin continues to set a high standard in the NASCAR Cup Series. His performance in the 2025 season so far—marked by a series-leading four victories—reinforces his relentless drive to remain at the top of the sport. One of his most notable wins came in a dramatic double-overtime finish at Dover, a race where Briscoe himself finished second. That result, according to Briscoe, was in large part thanks to lessons he’s learned from observing and working with Hamlin.
“Denny’s level of preparation is unbelievable,” Briscoe said. “He doesn’t take any detail for granted. Whether it’s strategy, communication with the crew, or reading data, he’s always a step ahead. Watching how seriously he approaches every aspect of the job has helped shape the way I approach my own race weekends.”
Hamlin’s recent contract extension not only solidifies his future with JGR but also includes a fresh sponsorship deal with Bob’s Discount Furniture, a partnership that brings additional momentum to the veteran driver’s late-career push for a long-elusive Cup Series championship. With 58 career victories to his name, Hamlin now has a realistic shot at hitting the 60-win milestone and finally capturing the title that has narrowly eluded him.
Briscoe, who clinched a crucial win at Pocono earlier in the season to lock himself into the playoff picture, credits Hamlin’s presence for his own consistency throughout 2025. He has notched eight top-10 finishes so far and points to Hamlin’s mentorship as a key part of his growth.
“Being around someone with that level of experience and success rubs off on you,” Briscoe noted. “You start to pay attention to the little things that separate good drivers from great ones. I think all of us at Joe Gibbs Racing benefit from Denny’s drive and attention to detail.”
The fan response to Briscoe’s remarks was overwhelmingly positive. Many on social media praised the camaraderie between the two drivers, calling Hamlin an “inspirational figure” and a “role model” for younger competitors. Hashtags like #WorkEthic, #RoleModel, and #TeamLeader began trending following Briscoe’s comments, reflecting how widely Hamlin’s dedication is respected within the racing community.
Hamlin’s decision to stay with Joe Gibbs Racing also sends a strong message about the team’s unity and long-term ambitions. With a legacy already firmly established, the extension represents more than just job security—it shows Hamlin’s confidence in the team’s championship potential and his desire to be part of a sustained winning culture.
Joe Gibbs himself commented on the importance of Hamlin’s return, stating, “Denny has been a cornerstone of this organization for nearly two decades. His leadership, consistency, and hunger to win make him invaluable—not just as a driver, but as a team ambassador and mentor to our younger talent.”
Indeed, with Hamlin’s contract renewed, JGR’s playoff push gets a morale boost. His on-track performance and off-track example have helped the entire garage elevate their game. Briscoe’s public praise of his teammate reflects not only respect but also a healthy team dynamic that bodes well for the postseason run.
The timing of the deal and Briscoe’s comments is significant, especially with the playoffs approaching and the Brickyard 400 looming large. Indianapolis has always been a prestigious stop on the NASCAR calendar, and JGR’s lineup appears more motivated than ever to deliver a statement win.
For Briscoe, racing alongside a veteran like Hamlin has been invaluable. “Every time we’re in meetings or breaking down practice runs, he brings insight that most of us wouldn’t even think about,” he said. “He challenges us to be better—not just as drivers but as teammates.”
As the 2025 NASCAR Cup Series season enters its critical final stretch, JGR appears well-positioned with a mix of veteran leadership and rising talent. Hamlin’s renewed commitment, combined with Briscoe’s hunger and respect for the craft, showcases a well-balanced operation that could go deep into the postseason.
The story of Denny Hamlin’s longevity and Chase Briscoe’s evolution under his wing highlights the importance of mentorship and perseverance in motorsports. And as the battle for the championship intensifies, it’s clear that JGR’s strength lies not just in speed, but in its united front—driven by mutual respect and an unrelenting desire to win.
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