Tense Moments at New Hampshire: Hamlin and Gibbs Clash
Denny Hamlin expressed regret following a controversial incident with teammate Ty Gibbs during Sunday’s race at New Hampshire Motor Speedway. The altercation occurred on lap 110 when Hamlin spun Gibbs after a series of racing attempts.
“I certainly did not want to spin out a teammate,” Hamlin stated, emphasizing that his intent was to find space for overtaking as both drivers fought for position alongside Christopher Bell. The situation escalated after Hamlin’s frustrations were audible over the team radio, calling into question Gibbs’ defensive racing style while both aimed for the Cup Series playoffs.
Hamlin recounted the sequence: “We made contact into Turn 1. It was the fourth or fifth time that we made contact, but eventually he ended up getting spun.” The trio, running 11th to 13th, faced a tight competition, with Bell eventually challenging Gibbs as Hamlin attempted to navigate around them.
Hamlin noted the complexities of intra-team racing dynamics: “I don’t know what the whole formula is, but I’m sure Joe and those guys will figure it out.” Both Hamlin and Bell are vying for championship points, intensifying the on-track friction. The veteran driver later reflected on the situation, stating, “I made a mistake into Turn 1. I would have made a mistake with anybody in that position.”
Joe Gibbs, owner of both drivers and grandfather to Ty, indicated a hands-off approach in resolving the matter, asserting that his drivers would have to work it out independently: “Those guys will get together on their own and figure it out.”
Tensions peaked during the race as Hamlin vented frustrations over the radio: questions like, “Does Ty know we’re racing for a championship?” underscored his mounting agitation. Gibbs, when approached after the race, chose not to address the incident directly, shifting focus to the upcoming event at Kansas Speedway.
Despite the turmoil, Hamlin assured that he does not fear retaliation from Gibbs, who simply remarked on the radio, “Game on,” following the incident. As the playoff battle intensifies, the implications of this clash may resonate through the teams’ strategies moving forward.
