Denny Hamlin: NASCAR Open Exemption Provisional rule ‘reeks of desperation’

One of the most controversial rules of the 2025 season is the Open Exemption Provisional. Denny Hamlin is not a fan, that’s for sure. The NASCAR driver and team owner was very clear about his feelings on the matter.

Trackhouse Racing requested this new provisional for Helio Castroneves months ago. If Helio fails to qualify on speed at the Daytona 500, he will be given a special 41st spot. No points and no prize money can be earned if he uses it.

There have been many critics in the fanbase, media, and now the driver and team owner front. Denny Hamlin was asked about the rule at Bowman Gray ahead of today’s Clash practice.

“It reeks of desperation,” Hamlin explained, via Matt Weaver of Sportsnaut. “I don’t love it. It’s just reaching to do whatever you can to make a headline. It’s a short-term gain at a long-term loss.”

Denny Hamlin more or less has the same critique that most people have. This lessens the product of the Daytona 500. Really, it is the only race that would require this provisional since it is one of the few that ever has over 40 entries.

A talented driver from another series coming to NASCAR is awesome. Some of the most storied moments in the sport come from outsiders giving it a try. Mario Andretti and AJ Foyt are the biggest historical examples. How about Shane van Gisbergen in 2023 at Chicago?

None of those drivers were guaranteed a spot in those races. They were great enough to rise above the challenges. Denny Hamlin feels like Helio Castroneves should have to make that 40-car field via qualifying or the Duels.

Denny Hamlin starts off 2025 with critiques

Of course, Denny Hamlin is back to his usual ways. As usual he remains vocal. Let’s be honest, he’s starting off 2025 with a critique of NASCAR more or less. There is also the lawsuit that his 23XI Racing team is involved in against the sanctioning body.

So, it’s not hard to understand why Denny would be a bit critical. On the provisional, I think he’s right. The pros are letting a driver like Helio race in NASCAR. Maybe one day down the line Lewis Hamilton or Max Verstappen gives it a go. Why not make them earn it?

NASCAR is not an easy motorsport. These are heavy cars, oval racing is not something done in a lot of places worldwide. When an IndyCar or F1 star comes to test their skill at Daytona, they should be intimidated. However, this provisional takes all of the drama and pressure away.

Instead of Helio sweating it out during his qualifying run, he can breathe easy. When he has a small moment on the track, he doesn’t have to worry about how that will affect his time. During qualifying as he watches others, he won’t have to be concerned with the hundredths of a second.

While it is great Helio will make the race, why not make him earn it? Denny Hamlin makes a great point that has also been made by others. When you give out a starting spot as a safety net, it dilutes the product overall.