Denny Hamlin to Miss Mexico Cup Race After Birth of Son
Denny Hamlin, fresh off his third victory of the season at Michigan, will miss the inaugural NASCAR Cup Series race in Mexico due to the birth of his son. In a statement released Thursday, Hamlin expressed his priority is to support his partner, Jordan Fish, and their growing family. "Everyone is doing well," he affirmed.
This marks a significant absence for Hamlin, who has participated in over 400 consecutive Cup races, last missing a race in March 2014 due to a medical issue. His seat in the No. 11 Joe Gibbs Racing Toyota will be filled by Ryan Truex, younger brother of 2017 champion Martin Truex Jr. Truex, who has only 26 Cup starts—none since 2014—has recently competed part-time in the Xfinity Series, securing three victories this season.
In light of NASCAR’s revised playoff waiver policy for 2025, which risks stripping drivers of playoff points for non-medical waivers, Hamlin’s situation remains unaffected. The league recognizes the birth of a child as a valid medical reason, allowing Hamlin to apply for a playoff waiver without penalties.
As the series prepares for its first event in Mexico, Hamlin’s absence underscores the evolving dynamics within the NASCAR Cup Series.
