Denny Hamlin’s struggles to secure a win this season have been a major talking point in the NASCAR world, and now Kevin Harvick has pointed the finger at Joe Gibbs Racing (JGR) for a critical flaw that may be holding him back. Harvick, a seasoned veteran with years of experience behind the wheel, didn’t hold back in his analysis, suggesting that JGR’s missteps may have directly impacted Hamlin’s chances of reaching Victory Lane.
JGR’s Costly Mistakes
Joe Gibbs Racing has long been one of NASCAR’s premier teams, but even the best organizations are not immune to errors. According to Harvick, JGR’s approach has been flawed in key areas, potentially robbing Hamlin of much-needed wins. Whether it’s race strategy, pit road execution, or car performance adjustments, something seems to be preventing the No. 11 team from capitalizing on opportunities.
Hamlin, known for his aggressive racing style and consistency, has had several near-misses this season. However, Harvick believes the issues go beyond just bad luck. “When you look at the way JGR is executing races, there are some glaring mistakes that stand out,” Harvick reportedly said. “They have the speed, but they’re not putting themselves in position to close races the way they should.”
Tires, Strategy, or Execution?
One of the biggest concerns surrounding JGR this season has been their tire management and pit strategy. Goodyear’s tire compound has been a hot topic among drivers, with several expressing frustration over inconsistencies. Harvick has been vocal in his criticism of NASCAR’s reliance on Goodyear, and he seems to believe JGR hasn’t adapted well to the ongoing tire situation.
Hamlin himself has hinted at issues with race execution, whether it be untimely pit stops, handling problems in the car, or late-race decision-making. At times, JGR has seemed to make the wrong calls when it matters most, leaving Hamlin in vulnerable positions against his competitors.
Harvick’s Insight as a Former Champion
Harvick’s experience brings weight to his critique. Having won a championship and competed at the highest level for decades, he understands the fine margins between winning and losing. His assessment of JGR’s flaws is not just speculation—it’s coming from a driver who has seen and experienced similar situations firsthand.
If JGR wants to get Hamlin back to Victory Lane, they may need to take a hard look at their overall race-day execution. With the NASCAR season heating up, every race counts, and Hamlin cannot afford to let more opportunities slip away. Whether Harvick’s comments serve as a wake-up call remains to be seen, but one thing is certain—something needs to change if JGR wants to maximize Hamlin’s potential this season.
