Denny Hamlin shares latest update on 23XI Racing purchase of SHR charter

While Denny Hamlin is in the middle of a championship battle in the NASCAR Playoffs, his team is in the middle of a legal dispute. The lawsuit from 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports against NASCAR looms large over the sport.

Right now, we have only heard the initial complaint as well as a couple of motions and requests. 23XI and the plaintiffs want an injunction to allow them to operate as chartered teams without giving up their antitrust claims. They also are seeking expedited discovery.

Of course, NASCAR does not want either of those things to happen. So, we’re all just waiting until a judge weighs in and makes a decision one way or another.

According to Bob Pockrass of FOX Sports, Hamlin has not had any discussions with NASCAR about next year’s charters. 23XI and Front Row are both supposed to purchase a charter each from Stewart-Haas Racing. That is awaiting approval.

Denny Hamlin said he has not had discussions with NASCAR about the approval of an SHR charter transfer to 23XI (23XI has an agreement to buy one) after this season and doesn't know of any deadline for a decision on it. https://t.co/vAiq64RHfD

— Bob Pockrass (@bobpockrass) October 19, 2024

One would think this would be a huge distraction. Denny Hamlin insists that it is not. He will try to prove as much in these next three races and earn himself a spot in the Championship 4.

This weekend at Las Vegas will be the first real chance for Hamlin to win a race. These intermediate tracks are where Toyota thrives and we are going to see if that trend continues.

Denny Hamlin wants to win his way in

Every driver in the Round of 8 wants to win on Sunday and get their ticket to Phoenix before anyone else. That will allow whoever wins this weekend to plan for an extra two weeks for Phoenix. Go all-in, as it were.

For Denny Hamlin, a win would ease tension. He has had to fight his way to advance in the first two rounds. It at least has not been easy. Drivers like William Byron have had a much more steady and stable playoffs.

Kyle Larson will be the heavy favorite for this weekend. He steps up his performance in Las Vegas, no matter what time of the year it is. He has shown a knack for hitting the jackpot when he goes to Sin City.

So, Denny Hamlin – is he the real deal this year? When he has had his quietest playoffs in some time, is it the right time for him to become a Cup Series champion? Can he overcome the off-the-track drama?