Hamlin Soars: Harvick Praises Driver's New Peak

Kevin Harvick has asserted that Denny Hamlin's current racing team is superior to its performance during Chris Gabehart's six-season tenure as crew chief. Hamlin, now 45, is enjoying a remarkable period of success, including leading over 600 laps in the first 10 races of 2026 and achieving his 63rd career Cup victory, tying Kyle Busch for ninth all-time. This resurgence occurs despite a contentious lawsuit filed by JGR against Gabehart, alleging he photographed proprietary files and synced data to a personal Google Drive before departing for Spire.

JGR claims Gabehart's new role at Spire, where he was announced as Chief Motorsports Officer, directly benefits from the information he allegedly took. They are seeking over $8 million and have included Spire as a co-defendant. Evidence, including photos of Gabehart at Spire's pit station, was presented in court. Gabehart denies the allegations, stating a forensic audit found no evidence of data transmission and that his role at JGR became untenable.

Meanwhile, Hamlin is considered a championship favorite, with odds at +225 for Sunday's race at Pocono, where he has won seven times previously. His continued motivation and chemistry with his current crew chief, Chris Gayle, are highlighted as key factors in his sustained performance, contrasting with drivers like Martin Truex Jr. who retired due to a lack of motivation.