DEAL DONE: Denny Hamlin Shocks NASCAR World with Blockbuster 5-Year, $215M Deal with Hendrick Motorsports
April 19, 2025 — In a move that’s sending shockwaves through the NASCAR garage, Denny Hamlin has officially signed a 5-year deal with Hendrick Motorsports worth a staggering $215,159,700 guaranteed, making it one of the richest contracts in stock car racing history.
After months of speculation about his future with Joe Gibbs Racing and 23XI — the team he co-owns — Hamlin has taken a bold leap, joining the powerhouse Hendrick lineup that already includes heavyweights like Chase Elliott and Kyle Larson.
Sources close to the deal say Hendrick made an aggressive push after recent behind-the-scenes friction surrounding sponsorship direction and long-term competitiveness at 23XI. The result? A deal that not only cements Hamlin’s driving future but shakes up the NASCAR landscape heading into the second half of the decade.
“After a lot of reflection, I’ve decided this is the best move for me competitively and personally,” Hamlin said in a statement. “Hendrick Motorsports represents the gold standard, and I’m beyond excited for what’s next.”
Hamlin, 44, remains one of the sport’s most consistent and skilled drivers — with a resume that includes 50+ Cup Series wins but still lacks that elusive championship. Teaming with Rick Hendrick may be the final piece in that puzzle.
The $215M price tag includes guaranteed earnings, performance bonuses, and a partial equity stake in Hendrick’s performance brand, according to insiders. It is believed to be the largest guaranteed contract in NASCAR driver history.
As fans reel from the bombshell move, one thing is clear: the 2025 season just got a lot more interesting.
