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Denny Hamlin struggles in NASCAR race, calls title comeback unrealistic

Motorsport.com • 1 min read • Latest: Nov 2, 2026, 1:09 AM

Last updated Nov 2, 2026

Denny Hamlin struggles in NASCAR race, calls title comeback unrealistic

Summary

Denny Hamlin faced significant challenges during the NASCAR race at Martinsville on November 1, 2026. Starting from pole position, Hamlin dropped down the field after his team's strategy not to pit in Stage 1 backfired, resulting in no points earned in either Stage 1 or Stage 2. Despite an early lead, Hamlin's mid-pack position left him frustrated and expressing doubts about his chances of a championship comeback. The playoffs continue to unfold, raising questions about strategies as drivers prepare for the upcoming races.

Source Links

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By the Numbers

•Hamlin started the Martinsville race from pole position.
•He failed to score points in both Stage 1 and Stage 2.
•His team's non-pit strategy during Stage 1 contributed to his struggles.
•Hamlin expressed doubts about his title chances after the race.

Latest Updates

1:09 AMMotorsport.com — Denny Hamlin calls NASCAR title comeback “unrealistic” after Martinsville
1:09 AMYahoo Sports — Denny Hamlin calls NASCAR title comeback “unrealistic” after Martinsville

What they're saying

"
Another weekend of what could have been for Denny Hamlin. He started the race from pole position and led early, but quickly fell through the field when his team's decision not to pit during Stage 1 backfired. Hamlin fell outside the top ten and failed to score any points in Stage 1. He was then buried mid-pack and failed to score any points in Stage 2 as well. Making the situation even more ...Keep reading
— Motorsport.com