In a stunning turn of events, Denny Hamlin has come out in full support of Chase Briscoe’s crew chief, James Small, despite facing intense scrutiny for past “execution issues.” The dynamic duo clinched their first victory of the 2025 Cup Series season at the Pocono Raceway, silencing critics and proving their worth on the track.
Hamlin, a seasoned veteran in the racing world, showered Small with praise during a recent interview, urging fans not to underestimate his abilities. Despite facing backlash and doubts about his performance, Hamlin stood firm in his belief that Small is a top-tier crew chief. “The guy catches so much s—t on social media, but he’s a really good crew chief. Everyone, don’t undersell James Small,” Hamlin emphasized.
Although Small has had his fair share of setbacks, particularly in his tenure with the No. 19 Joe Gibbs Racing team, Briscoe’s impressive four pole starts this season have showcased the team’s undeniable speed and potential. Hamlin pointed to their strong qualifying performances as evidence of Small’s expertise in crafting fast cars.
One of the main reasons behind Small’s rocky reputation stems from his tumultuous relationship with the now-retired Martin Truex Jr. Past race strategy decisions often thwarted Truex’s chances of victory, leading to tensions and heated exchanges. Small’s veiled remarks about Truex during a press conference further fueled fan animosity, labeling him as the “worst” crew chief in the field.
However, Briscoe’s recent victory may serve as a turning point for Small, gradually shifting public opinion in his favor. Despite the pressure on Briscoe to perform well given his team’s resources, Hamlin urged him to savor the win and acknowledge the team’s stellar execution during the race.
Looking ahead, both Small and Briscoe aim to continue their winning streak as they gear up for their next challenge at the Atlanta Motor Speedway. With renewed confidence and support from a racing legend like Hamlin, the duo is poised to conquer new heights in the competitive world of NASCAR.
