NASCAR fans were in for a treat as Denny Hamlin took home the checkered flag at Darlington Raceway. However, it wasn’t just the win that got the crowd talking, but also Hamlin’s witty comment in the post-race interview. “There’s two people I really love right now: my pit crew and Kyle Larson,” joked Hamlin, referring to Larson’s late-race spin that ultimately led to Hamlin’s victory.
But this wasn’t the first time that Hamlin has been at the center of attention. The veteran driver has been a lightning rod for controversy in the NASCAR world, with fans either loving or hating him. However, Hamlin’s recent win and his cheeky comment have sparked a new wave of backlash from fans. And this time, it’s not just about his on-track performance but also about his affiliation with Michael Jordan.
When Jordan announced his partnership with Hamlin to form a new NASCAR team, it caused quite a stir among fans. Many were excited to see the basketball legend’s involvement in the sport, while others were skeptical about how it would affect the current NASCAR landscape. However, it was Jordan’s statement about wanting to “win races and championships” that really got fans talking.
Some fans felt that Jordan’s statement was a direct dig at other teams and drivers, including Hamlin’s own Joe Gibbs Racing teammate, Kyle Busch. Busch, who has had a successful career with JGR, was not pleased with Jordan’s comment and made his feelings known in a recent interview. “We’re all here to win races and championships, so I don’t know what the hell he’s talking about,” said Busch.
But Hamlin, who has been friends with Jordan for years, was quick to address the backlash and defend his new partner. “Look, Michael is a competitive guy, and he wants to win. That’s why he’s getting into NASCAR. But he’s not here to stir up drama or create enemies. He just wants to be successful, and I’m honored to be a part of that,” said Hamlin.
It’s not the first time that Hamlin has been caught in the middle of a controversial statement. In the past, he has been open about his opinions on various topics, including the ongoing debate about the Confederate flag in NASCAR. Hamlin has also been vocal about his support for fellow driver Bubba Wallace, who has been at the forefront of promoting diversity and inclusion in the sport.
But despite the backlash, Hamlin has always remained true to himself and his beliefs. He has shown that he can handle the pressure and criticism that comes with being in the public eye, and he continues to be one of the top drivers in the sport.
As for his partnership with Jordan, it’s clear that the two have a strong bond and share a similar drive for success. And with Hamlin’s experience and Jordan’s competitive spirit, their new team is sure to make a mark in the NASCAR world.
In the end, it’s all about winning races and championships, and that’s exactly what Hamlin and Jordan intend to do. So, let’s put the drama and backlash aside and focus on the exciting future of this new team. As Hamlin said, “I love my pit crew, and I love Kyle Larson, but I also love my new partnership with Michael Jordan. And that’s something that NASCAR fans should be excited about.”
