Denny Hamlin Reveals How Lap Traffic Can Boost Race Leaders

The NASCAR veteran explains a counterintuitive advantage of lapped cars on mile-and-a-half tracks.

Mar. 17, 2026 at 3:50pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

In a recent podcast, NASCAR driver Denny Hamlin revealed that lapped traffic can actually benefit race leaders on mile-and-a-half tracks, as long as it's managed properly. Hamlin explained that by running a different line than the slower cars ahead, leaders can maintain speed through the corners while still getting a drafting advantage on the straightaways. However, Hamlin noted that this advantage doesn't last forever, as tire wear eventually evens out and the lapped cars become more of a hindrance than a help.

Why it matters

Hamlin's insights shed light on one of the more complex and misunderstood elements of intermediate-track racing in NASCAR. Understanding how to maximize the benefits of lapped traffic, while minimizing the drawbacks, can give race leaders a crucial edge in maintaining their position at the front of the field.

The details

Hamlin explained that the key is managing positioning and clean air. By running a different line than the lapped cars ahead, he's able to maintain speed through the corners while still benefiting from the draft on straightaways. "It allowed me to get that clean air in the corners, and then use the draft down the straightaway," Hamlin said. However, he noted that this advantage doesn't last forever, as tire wear evens out and the lapped cars become more of a hindrance than a help, citing a key moment involving Cody Ware that complicated his ability to manage traffic efficiently.

  • Hamlin made these comments on the latest episode of his Actions Detrimental podcast.

The players

Denny Hamlin

A veteran NASCAR driver who recently won the race at Las Vegas Motor Speedway.

Cody Ware

A NASCAR driver who was involved in a key moment that complicated Hamlin's ability to manage lapped traffic during the Las Vegas race.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“What's interesting on the mile-and-a-halves is, if the cars in front of you are on better tires, you're actually getting a draft. It actually helps you run faster with a car out in front, as long as it isn't detrimental to your actual cornering ability.”

— Denny Hamlin, NASCAR Driver (Actions Detrimental Podcast)

“But the crappy part was, after the new was gone from their tires, then they were just kind of in the way.”

— Denny Hamlin, NASCAR Driver (Actions Detrimental Podcast)

What’s next

Hamlin will look to continue his strong start to the 2026 season and chase his first NASCAR Cup Series championship.

The takeaway

Hamlin's insights highlight the nuanced and often counterintuitive nature of managing lapped traffic in NASCAR, underscoring the importance of strategic driving and adaptability for race leaders looking to maximize their performance on intermediate tracks.