Denny Hamlin Wins Daytona 500 with Mixed Emotions

Hamlin's victory comes with concerns over the future of 23XI Racing

Feb. 17, 2026 at 12:55pm

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Denny Hamlin won the 2026 Daytona 500, but his victory was tinged with mixed emotions. Hamlin, who drives for 23XI Racing, expressed hope that the team's Daytona 500 win is not their last, as he remains a competitor in the sport.

Why it matters

Hamlin's victory highlights the uncertainty surrounding the future of 23XI Racing, the team co-owned by NBA legend Michael Jordan and Denny Hamlin. The team's long-term viability is a concern in the competitive NASCAR landscape.

The details

Hamlin won the prestigious Daytona 500 race, but his victory was tempered by worries about the future of 23XI Racing, the team he drives for. 23XI Racing is co-owned by NBA great Michael Jordan and Hamlin, and the team's long-term prospects are uncertain in the highly competitive world of NASCAR.

  • Denny Hamlin won the 2026 Daytona 500 on February 15, 2026.

The players

Denny Hamlin

A NASCAR driver who won the 2026 Daytona 500 while expressing concerns about the future of his team, 23XI Racing.

23XI Racing

A NASCAR team co-owned by Denny Hamlin and NBA legend Michael Jordan, whose long-term viability is uncertain.

Tyler Reddick

The driver of the No. 45 Toyota for 23XI Racing at the 2026 Daytona 500.

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What they’re saying

“I hope this isn't (23XI's) last Daytona 500 because I'm still a competitor,”

— Denny Hamlin

The takeaway

Denny Hamlin's Daytona 500 victory was bittersweet, as the driver expressed concerns about the long-term future of his team, 23XI Racing. This highlights the challenges even successful NASCAR teams can face in the highly competitive sport.