Denny Hamlin working his way into 2026 season ahead of Daytona 500

(Photo credit: Mike Dinovo-Imagn Images)

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. - Denny Hamlin hasn't lost his competitive edge. Simply put, it has been dormant for a few months-and understandably so.In 2025, Hamlin, 45, made a wholehearted effort to win the NASCAR Cup Series championship. His preparation was superb, and so was his performance in the title event at Phoenix Raceway.Hamlin led 208 of 319 laps, won the second stage an