Denny Hamlin frequently receives jeers from spectators in the stands following his victory.
Denny Hamlin and Kyle Petty (Via IMAGO)
Joe Gibbs Racing completed his entrance into the ultimate NASCAR antagonist era last year after the Bristol playoff race. He emerged victorious in the race, and during his immediate post-race interview, he addressed the crowd’s boos. The infamous line “I defeated your preferred driver” was born on that day.
This provided an opportunity for his supporters to cheer and for his critics to despise him even more. Hamlin began the 2024 season with the same energy. He triumphed in the LA Clash at the Colosseum, commencing the race from the pole position and maintaining consistency throughout. After the victory, the TRD driver delivered the same line.
Former NASCAR driver and race analyst Kyle Petty was displeased to see Hamlin repeating these antics. He acknowledged that the initial use of the arrogant comment was effective, but doing it again is not worthwhile. Petty, who is the son of seven-time NASCAR Cup champion Richard Petty, then urged Hamlin to come up with a new catchphrase.
“That’s how he’s starting the season this year. But you know what? Find another catchphrase, dude. It worked the first time. I’m not so sure about the second time. We’re going to grow tired of hearing it, and I know everyone’s favorite driver is going to grow tired of you defeating them,” Petty told the NASCAR YouTube Channel.
The co-owner of 23XI Racing appears to have moved past the disappointment of a disappointing conclusion to the 2023 season, which resulted in his elimination in Round 8. He now possesses the most momentum among all drivers on the grid as he enters the Daytona 500 following his triumph.
The LA Clash has demonstrated a few things. Hamlin is in the same form as he was last season. He will not be altering his racing style despite criticism. He is confident as he approaches the Daytona 500, aiming for his fourth victory in the prestigious race.
The race also demonstrated that the modifications to the Toyota Camry’s body have not impacted their performance. With the exception of Christopher Bell, all TRD cars qualified for the race. Throughout the day, all JGR and 23XI drivers had comparable cars.
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