Denny Hamlin reveals how charter negotiations are going with NASCAR: 'Not well'

At the end of 2024, the NASCAR team charters have to be renewed, but negotiations have not been positive if you ask Denny Hamlin. Here is the simple rundown of it – charters guarantee 36 of 40 cars are given guaranteed entry and money for races. Owners that have invested millions into charters want them to be permanent, but NASCAR is thinking otherwise.

Denny Hamlin as a team owner and driver has a unique perspective on this issue. This all stems from NASCAR’s media rights coming up for negotiation again in 2024. So, the entire revenue model is up for discussion. For now, teams and NASCAR are too far apart to make anything happen it appears.

During NASCAR Playoffs Media Days, Hamlin was asked about the issue. Jenna Fryer of the AP reported that Hamlin expressed the negotiations are “Not [going] well.”

“I think the teams’ ask has been very legitimate and not off in leftfield. You’re going to have to chase down Jim [France] and ask for a reason because, there’s not really been a good reason, but the answer has been ‘no.'”

"I think the team's ask has been very legitimate and not off in leftfield. You're going to have to chase down Jim and ask for a reason because, there's not really been a good reason, but the answer has been "no."

— Jenna Fryer (@JennaFryer) August 31, 2023

What is the goal moving forward? Well, ideally one where NASCAR and the teams reach an acceptable agreement. Teams want more TV revenue to help with costs and NASCAR wants to do things differently. We know the Xfinity Series is going to The CW soon.

So, what is the future for the Cup Series and the charter system?

Denny Hamlin, NASCAR owners try to unite

Really, what this is going to take to work in the team owners’ favor, they have to be united. From Denny Hamlin at 23XI Racing to Rick Hendrick to Tony Stewart and everyone in between. Jeff Gordon has been a pivotal member of the negotiations as well.

In the last few years, there has been a focus on cutting costs and making the sport more profitable for teams and sponsors involved. When you consider all that goes into making a NASCAR weekend happen, let alone an entire season, a lot of folks have to make money.

However, just like any other sport, the product and entertainment are the drivers. Of course, driving is different because sponsors can carry you a long way even without the results. But if NASCAR is smart, they will realize they need these teams and drivers to make this whole thing work.

Yes, there are tons of young drivers and small teams that would love to move in and try to make moves to advance their own position in the sport. If drivers or big teams decide to sit out, NASCAR might try to fill cars with any drivers they can find.

Just remember, no one is wishing for the Santa Cruz Warriors to replace Steph Curry and the real thing at Golden State. NASCAR fans want to see the top drivers race, plain and simple.