Denny Hamlin has faced significant challenges on road courses during the Next Gen era of NASCAR.
Before the Chicago Street Race, he had recorded only one top 10 finish in a daunting 18 road course starts.
The weekend got off to a rocky start for Hamlin, as he encountered engine troubles right out of the gate.
During Saturday’s practice session, Hamlin’s engine blew not long after the green flag waved, forcing his No. 11 team to perform an engine change on his Toyota Camry.
As a result, he was set to start the race from the back of the field.
However, what followed was nothing short of remarkable.
After 165 miles of fierce competition, Hamlin managed to fight his way to a fourth-place finish, exceeding his own expectations for the weekend.
“I never thought we could end the weekend with a top-five finish,” he admitted.
This positive outcome will certainly bolster his confidence heading into next Sunday’s race at Sonoma Raceway, another road course he aims to conquer.
Hamlin is no stranger to success at Sonoma, boasting three wins so far this season, which puts him in a strong position as the 2025 racing season unfolds.
“It was probably our first incident-free road course race in the Next Gen era,” Hamlin reflected after the Chicago Street Race.
He highlighted his feeling of improved pace during the race and expressed satisfaction with how his team performed.
“It’s good to get a decent finish and not have to do anything crazy to do it.
Just keep it up front with fast cars, and that’s what we had.”
Following a hiccup in the Atlanta race the previous Saturday, Hamlin has found himself in a competitive rhythm.
With five top 10 finishes in the last nine races, he is now tied for the second most among drivers in that period.
Hamlin’s impressive performance at the Chicago Street Race fueled his advocacy for the event’s future.
This race marked the conclusion of NASCAR’s three-year contract with the city of Chicago, though options exist for extensions.
Speculation about a potential San Diego street course has surfaced, leading a number of drivers and teams to express their hope for NASCAR’s return to the traditional Chicagoland Speedway.
Hamlin passionately defended the value of racing in downtown Chicago.
“It’s a bigger event than some of the ovals that we go through because of the atmosphere,” he stated.
He emphasized the opportunity for engaging with new fans, particularly those who may not typically attend a NASCAR event.
Describing his experience, Hamlin noted: “I was shopping yesterday and people asked me, ‘What are you in town for?’ and I shared about the race.
Many expressed interest in attending, especially after missing it last year due to rain.
These are younger fans who wouldn’t travel to Chicagoland for a race, but right here, they can walk to it.”
Hamlin’s insight underscores his belief in the unique appeal of the Chicago street venue compared to traditional NASCAR settings.
“I don’t run the series or make the decisions, but there seems to be more excitement around this venue than many normal NASCAR race locations.”
image source from：on3
