Joe Gibbs Racing announces Denny Hamlin contract extension

There will be no repeat of last season’s free agency mishaps. Denny Hamlin is back with Joe Gibbs Racing and Toyota. This is a moment that many were waiting for, and some felt wouldn’t happen. Despite NASCAR rumors and stories to the contrary, Hamlin and Gibbs are staying together on a multi-year deal.

Also, 23XI Racing is likely going to remain with Toyota. There were a couple of weeks of gossip that 23XI had talked with Ford. Perhaps that is true, but none of it matters now. With Hamlin back at JGR and Toyota, his team is likely staying with him at the manufacturer.

Denny Hamlin had Coach Gibbs on his Actions Detrimental podcast to talk about the deal. Joe Gibbs Racing also announced the extension online.

Signed, sealed, and delivered! Denny Hamlin has signed a multi-year contract extension with JGR 🤝#TeamToyota #NASCAR pic.twitter.com/qO25DTQTA5

— Joe Gibbs Racing (@JoeGibbsRacing) September 4, 2023

A long time coming, most felt that this deal was going to come at some point. However, after seeing what happened with Kyle Busch just a year ago, each passing day put more doubt into fans and others that this wouldn’t happen.

Denny Hamlin is still searching for that elusive championship. After spending almost two decades with JGR, it might be time for him to snag that Bill France Cup and solidify his legacy in NASCAR.

There is no move to Ford, he’s not going to drive for 23XI Racing, and this is not a repeat of the Kyle Busch debacle. Hamlin is back and for the foreseeable future.

Denny Hamlin ‘excited’ to announce extension

Of course, Denny Hamlin is more than happy that this deal is done. He has a lot going on with driving, being a team owner, a podcast host, and everything else he does. He wears a lot of hats and helmets and this is a nice way to take a load off.

At Darlington, he almost ran away with the race. However, his disappointing finish doesn’t change the fact he’s still focused on earning a championship this year in Phoenix.

“Joe Gibbs Racing has been my home for almost 20 years now,” said Hamlin. ”My relationship with Joe (Gibbs), my team, and everyone at JGR means a lot to me. We have accomplished so much together over the years. I’m excited to finally announce this so we can put all our focus on chasing the championship.”

To all of the 11 fans, and haters, Denny Hamlin is back and ready for more in the FedEx Toyota Camry. Love him or hate him, he’s here to stay.