Denny Hamlin remains at top of NASCAR driver rankings despite winless streak
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 16, 2026, 9:03 AM
Last updated Sep 16, 2026
Denny Hamlin retains the No. 1 spot in NASCAR driver rankings as of September 16, 2026, despite a 12-race winless streak. Although other drivers like Christopher Bell, Kyle Larson, and Ryan Blaney have shown potential, none have established a consistent challenge for the lead position. Hamlin's recent performance, which includes several top-10 finishes, has sustained his ranking amid shifting competition. The upcoming races will test if any driver can challenge Hamlin's lead.
- •Denny Hamlin has not won in 12 races since his three-race win streak.
- •Christopher Bell and Kyle Larson are among those who have shown flashes of success.
- •The rankings reflect recent performances as the season winds down.
- •Upcoming races could provide opportunities for challengers to narrow the gap.
- 9:03 AMYahoo Sports — NASCAR Top 10 driver rankings updated. Look in Denny Hamlin's mirror!
"While it may be temping to unseat Denny Hamlin as No. 1 in our NASCAR rankings, there's been no consistency from the other contenders.
Sources
External linksOriginal reporting and copyright belong to the linked sources. SportsNewsReport.com aggregates and links — it does not republish full articles.
Related Stories
Last 14 days
NASCAR•Sep 16, 2026, 4:56 AMSteve O’Donnell Talks Dodge’s NASCAR Cup Series Future
NASCAR•Sep 16, 2026, 4:33 AMBreathtaking video shows planes flying over Paycor Stadium
NASCAR•Sep 16, 2026, 1:14 AMDenny Hamlin Recalls Story of NASCAR’s Most Caution-Filled Race
NASCAR•Sep 15, 2026, 11:46 PMDenny Hamlin Reveals Startling Weight Loss After Gateway
NASCAR•Sep 15, 2026, 11:36 PMThe NASCAR Trucks Chase is about The Big Three, but who else?
NASCAR•Sep 15, 2026, 10:39 PMBristol Motor Speedway prepares for race weekend