Denny Hamlin Warns of Massive Tire Falloff at Darlington

NASCAR driver Denny Hamlin predicts tire issues will make the upcoming Darlington race a "wild card" event.

Published on Mar. 10, 2026

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NASCAR driver Denny Hamlin has warned that the upcoming Goodyear 400 race at Darlington Raceway could be "out of control" due to significant tire falloff and degradation. Hamlin cited the new 2026 car package, which favors higher tire wear, as well as Goodyear's tire choices for the race, as factors that will make tire management critical for teams and drivers.

Why it matters

Darlington is known as one of the most challenging tracks on the NASCAR circuit, with its high-wear surface and slippery corners. The new 2026 car package, which reduces downforce, is expected to exacerbate the tire issues, potentially leading to unpredictable race strategies and an entertaining event for fans.

The details

Hamlin, who hosts the "Actions Detrimental" podcast, discussed the tire concerns in a recent episode. He predicted that teams may see as much as four seconds of tire falloff during the race, forcing them to pit more frequently than usual. The reduced downforce of the 2026 cars will lead to more sliding and tire degradation, as the cars will pick up more of the track's surface grain. Hamlin also noted that Darlington's high corner-exit speeds will put additional pressure on the tires, making tire management a critical factor in the race.

  • The Goodyear 400 at Darlington Raceway is scheduled for March 22, 2026.
  • The new 2026 car package, which features reduced downforce, will be used for the first time at Darlington.

The players

Denny Hamlin

A NASCAR driver who hosts the "Actions Detrimental" podcast and has warned about the potential tire issues at the upcoming Darlington race.

Chase Briscoe

A NASCAR driver who experienced tire issues at the recent race in Phoenix, finishing in last place.

Ryan Blaney

A NASCAR driver who is considered one of the best oval racers in the sport, along with Kyle Larson.

Kyle Larson

A NASCAR driver who is considered one of the best oval racers in the sport, along with Ryan Blaney.

Christopher Bell

A NASCAR driver who is also considered one of the elite oval racers in the sport.

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What they’re saying

“Darlington, where NASCAR will race in two weeks, may become 'out of control.' Hamlin states this in reference to the tires and to how teams and drivers will have to carefully manage their cars throughout the race.”

— Denny Hamlin, NASCAR Driver (Actions Detrimental Podcast)

“I predict four seconds of falloff, if not more. That will make tire management and long-run speed especially important. Teams will likely not run a full stage without pitting. Crew chiefs will matter more at Darlington than at most, if any other, NASCAR tracks.”

— Denny Hamlin, NASCAR Driver (Actions Detrimental Podcast)

“The race will be a 'wild card,' and whoever guesses correctly may go on to win.”

— Denny Hamlin, NASCAR Driver (Actions Detrimental Podcast)

What’s next

The Goodyear 400 at Darlington Raceway is scheduled for March 22, 2026, and will be the first race to feature the new 2026 car package with reduced downforce.

The takeaway

The upcoming Darlington race is shaping up to be a true test of tire management and strategy, with Denny Hamlin warning of significant tire falloff that could make the event a "wild card" for teams and drivers. The new 2026 car package, which favors higher tire wear, combined with Darlington's inherently challenging surface, could lead to an unpredictable and entertaining race for NASCAR fans.