As the 2024 NASCAR Cup Series speeds toward its final showdown, the stakes have never been higher. With just eight drivers left in the battle for the championship, every lap counts. Joe Gibbs Racing veteran Denny Hamlin has thrown his predictions into the ring, naming the four drivers he believes will emerge victorious from the elite field and make it to the coveted Championship-4.
In his latest podcast episode, Hamlin opened up about the monumental challenge of picking just four drivers from a group that includes four former champions and an array of top-tier talent. Kyle Larson, Christopher Bell, Chase Elliott, and Hamlin himself are the names he has tipped for the next round, but he admits that any of the remaining drivers could pull off an upset.
“Man, it’s tough to pick four out of this group,” Hamlin said. “I’m looking at these eight drivers, and every single one of them has been strong all season. Somebody’s going to slip up, and someone else is going to take advantage of that. You just never know.”
Hamlin’s own predictions are bold, as he left out names like Ryan Blaney, his own 23XI Racing driver Tyler Reddick, and Hendrick Motorsports star William Byron, all of whom have shown flashes of brilliance throughout the season. But Hamlin stands by his call, singling out his picks as the ones who have shown the most consistency.
“Me, Larson, Bell, and Elliott,” he confidently declared, before discussing the standout performances of Kyle Larson and Christopher Bell. “Larson’s been strong, Bell’s been in trouble, but always finds a way to stay in it. Last year at Homestead, he got a timely caution that saved him. This group is stacked, though. I think these eight are truly the best of the season.”
While Hamlin praised the depth of talent in the remaining field, he knows that anything can happen in the next round. Every driver is capable of winning, and as he pointed out, unexpected moments can change the trajectory of the playoffs.
“This field is stacked. This is the way it should be—these are the best eight drivers we’ve got,” Hamlin continued. “It’s going to be a tough battle for everyone. Someone’s going to stub their toe, and someone’s going to surprise us all.”
With the Round of 8 set to kick off this Sunday, all eyes will be on the drivers as they fight for a place in the Championship-4. Hamlin’s bold predictions might ruffle a few feathers, but one thing is for sure—every driver in this final group is ready for the fight of their life. Will Hamlin’s top four make it to Phoenix, or will there be a surprise shake-up? Only time will tell.
