Hamlin Questions the Logic Behind Loosening the “Busch Rule”
NASCAR Nation – Denny Hamlin has sparked a fiery debate by pushing back on NASCAR’s talk of easing the so-called “Kyle Busch Rule.” On his Actions Detrimental podcast, Hamlin didn’t hold back—questioning what problem the proposed change is actually meant to solve.
What Is the “Busch Rule,” Anyway?
The “Kyle Busch Rule” refers to a series of NASCAR limits introduced to restrict how often experienced Cup drivers can compete in the Xfinity and Truck Series. Aimed at fostering development in the junior ranks, the rule originally capped Cup drivers with 3–5 years of experience to just five races per year in each lower-tier series, while also barring them from playoff and certain bonus events .
Hamlin: “What Is That Solving?”
With rumors circulating that NASCAR may increase the race limit to 10 or loosen restrictions starting in 2026, Hamlin is unimpressed. His key argument? There isn’t a pressing problem to fix.
“I don’t know why there’s a need for that. … That is an unnecessary rule change.” He pointed out that Ross Chastain is the only driver who’s even reached the current five-race limit in 2025, underscoring how rarely Cup drivers maximize the allowance. Hamlin emphasized, “I like seeing the Xfinity regulars going down there and competing against themselves. Every now and then a Cup driver goes in there and they kind of set a bar.” He concluded: “My question is, what are we doing? What is that solving?”
Preserving Opportunity vs. Expanding Exposure
Hamlin sees the current setup as balanced. Allowing the occasional Cup driver to participate lets top-level competitors act as benchmarks—setting standards without dominating. Loosening the rule risks diminishing the spotlight on Xfinity regulars and undercutting developmental opportunities.
Meanwhile, other voices like Austin Dillon argue that relaxing the rule could attract more sponsorship dollars and higher-profile participation. He believes that offering 10 races instead of five could make it easier to market sponsorship packages, enticing Cup stars like Kyle Busch to participate more regularly .
The Heart of the Debate
At its core, the argument boils down to two contrasting philosophies:
Hamlin’s View: Keep the rule tight to preserve fairness, competitiveness, and the integrity of the Xfinity Series. Dillon’s Perspective: Loosen restrictions to enhance visibility, sponsorship potential, and flexibility for drivers.
Final Thoughts
Denny Hamlin has made it clear: unless NASCAR’s leadership can point to a specific issue this proposed change would address, loosening the “Busch Rule” is nothing more than solving a problem that doesn’t exist. The sport now faces a choice: protect the pathway for rising talent or widen the lanes for Cup-level stars seeking more track time.
