JGR President Hails Former Crew Chief’s NASCAR Blueprint as Team Seals Darlington Victory
DARLINGTON, S.C. — Joe Gibbs Racing (JGR) President Dave Alpern credited the enduring strategic influence of a former crew chief as the organization clinched a thrilling victory at Darlington Raceway, with driver Denny Hamlin mastering the “Lady in Black” in Sunday’s NASCAR Cup Series showdown.
The win, Hamlin’s fifth at the iconic Darlington track, underscored the lasting impact of a race-day blueprint crafted by former crew chief Mike Wheeler, now a key technical advisor for JGR. Alpern emphasized that Wheeler’s innovative approaches to pit strategy and car setup, honed during his tenure as Hamlin’s crew chief from 2016–2018, remain integral to the team’s success.
“Mike’s fingerprints were all over this victory,” Alpern declared post-race. “The way we managed tire wear, adjusted to track conditions, and optimized pit stops—it’s a testament to the systems he helped build. His forward-thinking mindset still drives our culture, even years later.”
Hamlin, who led 98 laps and survived a grueling overtime finish, echoed the sentiment. “This place demands precision, and the strategy today was flawless. Wheels [Wheeler] set a standard here that we still lean on. It’s cool to see his legacy paying off,” said the three-time Daytona 500 champion.
Darlington, notorious for chewing up tires and testing driver patience, lived up to its reputation as multiple contenders faltered in the final stages. JGR’s decision to short-pit with 30 laps remaining proved pivotal, allowing Hamlin to cycle to the front after a late caution and hold off a charging Kyle Larson.
Wheeler, who transitioned to an executive role at JGR in 2019, downplayed individual praise but acknowledged the team’s adherence to data-driven principles he championed. “It’s about relentless preparation and adapting in the moment. These guys executed it perfectly,” he said.
The victory marks JGR’s third win of the 2024 season, bolstering Hamlin’s playoff positioning and reinforcing the team’s reputation for strategic excellence. As NASCAR’s playoffs loom, Alpern emphasized that Wheeler’s foundational work continues to shape JGR’s pursuit of a sixth Cup Series title.
“Great teams never stop evolving,” Alpern said. “But the core philosophies—the ones Mike helped cement—are why we’re still winning races like this.”
For Hamlin and JGR, conquering Darlington’s challenges was a fitting tribute to a blueprint built to endure.
