Denny Hamlin will not compete in this weekend’s NASCAR Cup Series race at Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez in Mexico City, following the birth of his son on Wednesday, June 11. Joe Gibbs Racing (JGR) confirmed the news in a statement Thursday, announcing that reserve driver Ryan Truex will take the wheel of the No. 11 Yahoo Toyota Camry XSE in Hamlin’s absence.
In a message shared by the team, Hamlin expressed his excitement and gratitude:
“We are happy to announce the birth of our son. Everyone is doing well. My main priority is to be here at home for Jordan and our family over the next few days when she is able to go home and we transition to life as a family of five. I appreciate everyone at Joe Gibbs Racing, our partners, and our fans for the support over the last few weeks and I look forward to being back at the track next weekend in Pocono.”
Hamlin had previously hinted at the possibility of missing the race during a June 10 interview on SiriusXM NASCAR Radio, saying he would stay home if his fiancée, Jordan Fish, had not given birth by the time he needed to travel.
Joe Gibbs Racing fully supports Hamlin’s decision and promptly applied for a playoff waiver — a routine request in situations involving injury, illness, or family matters. NASCAR approved the waiver, ensuring Hamlin remains eligible for the 2025 Cup Series Playoffs and retains all playoff points earned so far this season.
The timing of Hamlin’s absence comes as he sits third in the overall point standings after 15 races, boosted by three victories — most recently at Michigan International Speedway last Sunday. Despite the missed start, his championship hopes remain intact thanks to the waiver ruling.
Ryan Truex, a three-time Xfinity Series winner, has been on standby for multiple weeks, including at Nashville and Michigan, ready to fill in if needed. He will now have the opportunity to compete on the Cup stage in Mexico City as Hamlin focuses on his growing family.
Hamlin is expected to return to the track next weekend at Pocono Raceway.
