Denny Hamlin is no stranger to high-pressure moments, whether it’s racing at nearly 200 miles per hour or fighting for a championship. But as NASCAR prepares for a historic first — the inaugural Cup Series race in Mexico — Hamlin faces a much more personal challenge: the birth of his third child.
The veteran driver and three-time Daytona 500 winner is currently on baby watch, as he and his fiancée, Jordan Fish, await the arrival of their new baby. With the Mexico race weekend just days away, Hamlin has made it clear that if the timing clashes with the birth, family will come first.
“I’m not getting on the plane if the baby hasn’t arrived by then,” Hamlin said in a recent interview. “When she’s ready, I’ll be there. Racing is important, but nothing matters more than being with her and our family for this moment.”
The Cup Series race in Mexico City marks a significant milestone for NASCAR. Scheduled to be held at the Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez — a track known for its unique layout and high-altitude challenge — this will be the first time the series has raced outside the U.S. since 1958. It’s a big moment for the sport as it continues to expand its global presence.
But for Hamlin, currently sitting third in the points standings with three wins this season, the decision is a deeply personal one. It’s not easy for a top-tier driver to sit out a race, especially one with so much attention and history tied to it. Fortunately, NASCAR’s rules allow for some flexibility. Under current regulations, drivers can apply for a waiver to remain playoff-eligible even if they miss a race for personal reasons — and welcoming a new child certainly qualifies.
If Hamlin does stay home, Joe Gibbs Racing has a backup plan in place. Ryan Truex, younger brother of fellow JGR driver Martin Truex Jr., has been tapped as the potential fill-in. Truex has spent time in the simulator and with the No. 11 team to ensure a smooth transition if needed. While it’s unclear how competitive the car would be without Hamlin behind the wheel, Truex’s familiarity with the organization and experience in NASCAR’s lower series makes him a capable stand-in.
Still, fans understand that some things matter more than motorsports. Social media has largely applauded Hamlin’s stance, praising him for choosing family over fame, especially in such a landmark race.
At 44, Hamlin is already considered one of the elder statesmen of the garage, but his priorities have clearly evolved. “You only get a few moments like this in life,” he said. “The race will go on — but I’ll never get this day back with my family.”
So while the engines roar in Mexico City this weekend, Denny Hamlin may be hearing a different kind of noise — the first cries of a newborn. And for him, that’s the real victory.
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