Denny Hamlin, one of NASCAR’s most polarizing and accomplished drivers, has always had a flair for delivering the unexpected. As the 2025 season approaches, Hamlin is not only focused on chasing the elusive NASCAR Cup Series championship but also searching for the perfect motto to define his team and himself in what could be a pivotal year. In the midst of this, a moment of raw emotion between Hamlin and one of NASCAR’s most prominent partners has captivated fans and the racing world alike.
The $267 Billion Connection
The partner in question is none other than FedEx, the global logistics giant and primary sponsor of Hamlin’s No. 11 car for nearly two decades. With an estimated market value of $267 billion, FedEx has been one of NASCAR’s most loyal and high-profile corporate backers. Their relationship with Hamlin transcends traditional sponsorship, often reflecting a deep connection between the driver, his team, and the brand’s values.
During a recent team event, representatives from FedEx, including some of its top executives, were left visibly emotional as Hamlin spoke candidly about his journey, his goals, and his desire to craft a new narrative for 2025. The 42-year-old driver, who has spent his entire Cup career with Joe Gibbs Racing and FedEx, reflected on the highs and lows of his career and the lessons he’s learned along the way.
A New Motto for 2025
In his speech, Hamlin shared his vision for the upcoming season, emphasizing the need for resilience, unity, and a relentless drive to succeed. “I’ve had great moments in this sport, but I’ve also faced heartbreak. 2025 is about rewriting the story,” Hamlin said. “It’s about finding the motto that pushes us forward every single day.”
Though he didn’t reveal the final motto he’s considering, Hamlin hinted at themes of perseverance and team spirit. This approach resonates not only with his crew but also with FedEx, whose corporate philosophy of “where now meets next” aligns perfectly with Hamlin’s determination to take the next step in his storied career.
A Season of Expectations
Hamlin enters the 2025 season under immense pressure. Despite racking up 51 career wins and three Daytona 500 victories, he has yet to claim a Cup Series championship—a fact that has both fueled his critics and motivated his fans. With FedEx fully behind him and 23XI Racing (his co-owned team) growing into a competitive powerhouse, the stakes have never been higher.
FedEx’s continued partnership is a testament to the faith they have in Hamlin and his ability to inspire both on and off the track. Their emotional response at the event highlights the personal connection between the driver and one of NASCAR’s most influential sponsors.
Why It Matters
In an era where corporate loyalty in NASCAR can be fleeting, Hamlin and FedEx’s enduring relationship serves as a model for what the sport can achieve when drivers and sponsors share a genuine bond. As Hamlin searches for his 2025 motto, fans and industry insiders alike are watching closely, knowing that the right mindset could finally lead him to the championship he’s been chasing for nearly two decades.
Will 2025 be the year Denny Hamlin changes his story? If the tears of one of NASCAR’s biggest partners are any indication, the journey promises to be nothing short of extraordinary.
