SAD NEWS: Denny Hamlin weighed in on the post-race clash between Bubba Wallace and Alex Bowman at the Chicago Street Race during the July 7 “Actions Detrimental” podcast, offering insights into both his disappointment and his defense of Wallace.

Denny Hamlin weighed in on the post-race clash between Bubba Wallace and Alex Bowman at the Chicago Street Race during the July 7 “Actions Detrimental” podcast, offering insights into both his disappointment and his defense of Wallace.

First, Hamlin emphasized that Wallace and the 23XI team had been performing strongly, with his disappointment stemming more from frustration than failure. He said they were “just playing grabass with the 48 [Bowman] and ended up getting the bad end of it,” pointing out that Wallace, on older tires, simply couldn’t fend off Bowman’s newer rubber and likely should’ve let him pass to preserve a solid finish instead of risking more by staying in the fight.

Regarding Wallace’s door-slam on Bowman during the cool-down lap—and the subsequent $50,000 fine—Hamlin attributed NASCAR’s response to it being shown live on TV and fueling social media outrage. “NASCAR made probably the only call that they could… it was on TV, and he [Bowman] was the race winner,” Hamlin explained, noting that similar incidents often go unpunished when not captured live

He also clarified that NASCAR’s safety evaluation depends heavily on context: an off-track bump post-race is viewed differently from contact under caution while safety vehicles are present. Though expecting a penalty, he doubted it would mirror the harsher consequences of other incidents .

In summary, Hamlin acknowledged Wallace’s passion and the team’s effort, critiqued the on-track strategy, and defended Wallace’s actions as part of the sport’s emotional intensity—while also explaining why NASCAR felt compelled to fine him.