Denny Hamlin, NASCAR star and co-host of the Actions Detrimental podcast, recently let fly with a shocking tale of post-race drama that has sent ripples through the sporting community. Following a NASCAR Cup Series race at the Homestead-Miami Speedway, Hamlin found himself embroiled in an unexpected scenario, witnessing an incident involving a police escort, a team car and a figure deeply embedded in NASCAR history – Richard Childress.
The Homestead-Miami Speedway has been no stranger to controversy. It has seen its fair share of drama, like the unforgettable 2004 finale that saw Kurt Busch clinch the title despite a lost wheel. However, the incident that unfolded at the 2025 season’s race seemed to be more of a post-race street spectacle than a track triumph. At the center of this controversy is the Childress family, who are now facing a wave of fan backlash.
Hamlin’s narrative paints a picture of the aftermath of the Homestead race where Joe Gibbs Racing’s (JGR) police escort was preparing to leave the scene. Among the onlookers was Richard Childress, the seasoned owner of the Richard Childress Racing (RCR) team. However, according to Hamlin, Childress was not just a bystander. He allegedly forced his way into the escort, resulting in a collision with a JGR car that led to significant damage.
The sports world is no stranger to Richard Childress’ combative nature, as evidenced by his 1984 brawl with Tim Richmond. Furthermore, this is not the first time Hamlin has crossed paths with the Childress clan. In 2024, Austin Dillon, an RCR driver, caused Hamlin to crash, only for NASCAR to revoke Dillon’s playoff spot. This incident seemed to reflect the Childress motto of “do whatever it takes,” a sentiment that fans have criticized as promoting aggression over sportsmanship.
The fans’ discontent has spilled over to social media platforms like Reddit, with many attributing Austin’s on-track behavior to Richard Childress’ confrontational attitude. Some have gone as far as celebrating the departure of ex-RCR drivers Tyler Reddick and Sheldon Creed from the team, interpreting it as a rejection of Childress’ aggressive management style.
Childress’ alleged behavior during the police escort incident has further fueled fans’ ire. They accuse him of feeling entitled and avoiding accountability, a trait they believe he has exhibited since the 1980s. Fans also believe Childress’ ego played a part in the incident, as he allegedly targeted JGR’s escort despite RCR having its own.
As the dust settles on this incident, fans are calling for a shift in the culture within RCR, from one that seemingly fosters aggression and entitlement to one that prioritizes sportsmanship and cooperation. The question now is whether the criticism will lead to any meaningful change or if it will merely add to the smoke and noise of the NASCAR world.