Denny Hamlin Reflects on Championship Loss
Hamlin's Initial Reaction
After a heartbreaking defeat in the NASCAR championship, Denny Hamlin told reporters he felt like he never wanted to race again. His words reflected the deep pain he felt right after the race. On Tuesday, he spoke to the media for the first time since the event, revealing more about his thoughts and feelings.
Plans for the Future
When asked if he might retire like Carl Edwards did after a similar loss, Hamlin confirmed he plans to race next year. However, he admitted that moving on from the recent race will take time. "I have a contract to race, but right now, I can't even think about it. I need some time to process this," he said.
The Pain of the Loss
Hamlin described the recent loss as one of the hardest moments in his career. He was leading the race when a caution flag changed everything. Another driver, Kyle Larson, made a smart tire choice and passed Hamlin in the final laps, ultimately winning the championship. Hamlin felt he had done everything right until that moment.
Support for Larson
Despite his disappointment, Hamlin attended Larson's championship celebration to show support. He emphasized that Larson deserved the title and wanted to make sure the focus was on Larson's achievement, not just his own loss. "I wanted to be there for him as a friend," Hamlin said.
Family and Fan Support
Hamlin also mentioned how he had to comfort his daughters, who were upset after the race. He tried to teach them that life can be unfair. He acknowledged the support he received from fans on social media, noting that while it was comforting, he needed to take breaks from reading the messages to manage his feelings.
Looking Ahead
As the NASCAR Cup Series prepares to resume competition in 88 days, Hamlin is focused on recovery. He has been reflecting on his performance and how he can improve for the next season. Despite the emotional toll, he remains committed to racing and looks forward to the challenges ahead.
