Here’s a bold statement: the world of NASCAR is far more complex than meets the eye, especially when it comes to team dynamics and racing strategies. But here’s where it gets controversial—while some drivers race with an all-or-nothing mentality, others prioritize teamwork and clean competition. Take Chris Buescher, for instance, who recently set the record straight about his approach to helping Ford teammates. Unlike Denny Hamlin, whose no-holds-barred racing style has sparked debates, Buescher embodies a different philosophy—one that values collaboration without compromising his competitive spirit.
Let’s dive deeper. Denny Hamlin, a driver and team owner for Toyota, is notorious for his relentless approach on the track. Whether it’s battling non-playoff drivers or going head-to-head with his own teammates, Hamlin doesn’t hesitate to race hard. This was evident in New Hampshire when he aggressively crowded Ty Gibbs, his non-playoff teammate, into the wall after Gibbs refused to yield. Hamlin’s stance is clear: he won’t pull punches, even if it means risking his own team’s success. A similar scenario unfolded at Kansas, where Hamlin went door-to-door with Bubba Wallace, his 23XI Racing teammate, leaving the bottom lane open for Chase Elliott to claim victory. Hamlin’s message? When he’s behind the wheel, loyalty takes a backseat to winning.
And this is the part most people miss—not all drivers share this mindset. Ford drivers, particularly those from Team Penske like Ryan Blaney and Joey Logano, emphasize teamwork and clean racing. Chris Buescher aligns with this philosophy, stating unequivocally, ‘I don’t want anybody to ever accuse me of laying over for anybody.’ For Buescher, racing is about winning, but not at the expense of his integrity or team alliances. Ahead of the Talladega race, he clarified that while he’s aware of the expectations to support his Ford teammates, he won’t engage in race manipulation. ‘Ultimately, we are still going to the racetrack to win a race,’ he said, emphasizing that he won’t give away positions without a fight.
However, Buescher acknowledges the delicate balance between competition and collaboration. In high-stakes situations, like risky four-wide moves, he admits there’s an extra layer of calculation. Yet, his loyalty to Ford drivers remains unwavering, especially in the final moments of a race. ‘That’s always been the case,’ he noted, ‘whether it’s the playoffs or not.’
Manufacturer alliances, particularly at superspeedways, play a pivotal role in NASCAR. Drivers often sync pit cycles, race strategies, and even fuel-saving efforts as a collective unit. Buescher highlights this teamwork, stating, ‘It doesn’t change just because we’re coming down to the end.’ This collaborative approach contrasts sharply with Hamlin’s individualistic style, raising the question: Is teamwork the future of NASCAR, or does the sport thrive on cutthroat competition?
Controversy alert: While Hamlin’s approach has its admirers, some argue it undermines the spirit of teamwork. Buescher’s stance, on the other hand, reflects a more nuanced understanding of racing—one that values both competition and camaraderie. But what do you think? Is Hamlin’s all-or-nothing mentality the right way to race, or does Buescher’s balanced approach better serve the sport? Let’s spark a debate in the comments—agree or disagree, your perspective matters!
