Tragedy struck the family of NASCAR superstar Denny Hamlin this week as his father, Dennis Hamlin, lost his live in a fire at his home.
NASCAR has released a statement offering its condolences to Denny and his family. The organization praised the late Dennis Hamlin for instilling “a love of racing in his son” and for the sacrifices he made to help Denny in his NASCAR career.
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“NASCAR extends its deepest condolences to Denny Hamlin and the entire Hamlin family. Dennis Hamlin instilled a love of racing in his son, and sacrificed greatly to develop Denny into a world-class talent in the sport. We also continue to offer our thoughts and prayers to Denny’s mother, Mary Lou, and hope for her full recovery.”
Respect & Condolences
NASCAR fans from across the country have come out to pay their respects to Hamlin and his departed father:
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“I’m a Larson fan but this season I’ll pull for Denny this is horrible and my condolences to you and your family Denny may god place his handover you and your mother,” one user on X declared.
“My heartbreaks for Denny and his family, my tears fall for the passing of Dennis, my prayers go out to Mary Lou and may God’s love and comfort surround them all,” wrote another.
“Dang. Tough loss for Denny Hamlin. RIP to Dennis Hamlin and thoughts for Mary Lou,” a third wrote.
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DAYTONA BEACH, FLORIDA – AUGUST 25: Denny Hamlin, driver of the #11 FedEx Cares Toyota, looks on during qualifying for the NASCAR Cup Series Coke Zero Sugar 400 at Daytona International Speedway on August 25, 2023 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Sean Gardner/Getty Images)Sean Gardner/Getty Images
The 2025 NASCAR Cup Series season saw Hamlin come away with six wins in 35 races – his most in a season since 2020. He went on to finish second in the Cup Series playoffs to Kyle Larson.
Hamlin will continue to compete for Joe Gibbs Racing in 2026 while also serving as a partner in Michael Jordan’s 23XI Racing team.
This story was originally published by The Spun on Dec 30, 2025, where it first appeared in the NASCAR section. Add The Spun as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
