Imagine a parallel reality where Chris Gayle's journey with Denny Hamlin and their championship aspirations took a different turn. In this alternate timeline, Gayle's association with Joe Gibbs Racing never materialized.
On Sunday, Gayle, Hamlin, and Gibbs reflected on the pivotal moment that led to their current collaboration. It all started with Chris Gabehart's promotion from Hamlin's pit crew to the competition director position, setting off a chain of events.
"Joe gave me just 24 hours to decide," Hamlin revealed. "Chris had another offer from a Cup team, and he didn't want to be kept waiting."
Hamlin, at 44, had reservations about starting anew with a crew chief who had only two Cup race wins in nearly 200 starts with Joe Gibbs Racing, despite an impressive record in the Xfinity Series.
"I was worried," Hamlin admitted. "Chris Gayle's resume wasn't exactly impressive. He also had to work with a lot of young guys."
Hamlin had previously worked with Erik Jones and Ty Gibbs.
"I told Joe, 'Do what you think is best. I've trusted you in the past, and I'll trust you again,'" Hamlin said.
Hamlin's concerns were evident during his interviews with Gayle, where he expressed his apprehension.
"I wanted him to know that my hesitation wasn't personal. I was caught off guard by this situation. I didn't expect to be in this position a week ago," Hamlin explained.
Gibbs acknowledged the challenges they faced during this transition.
"It was a tough time," Gibbs said. "Denny and Chris worked through it with us. We're grateful that Chris chose to stay with us."
With six wins and counting, the results speak for themselves.
Gayle inherited the team that Gabehart and Hamlin built, adopting the No. 11 team's processes and procedures. He introduced his own methods from the No. 54 team only when he felt it was appropriate and as the season progressed.
For Hamlin, the transition was seamless.
"I appreciate his leadership," Hamlin said. "He pushes me just as hard as Gabehart did. I made it clear to him that he's the leader, and I'll respect his decisions."
Hamlin emphasized the importance of the driver's support for the crew chief's authority.
"I wanted him to know that he has my respect and confidence. I want him to do what he thinks is best and not be afraid to tell me when he thinks I need to make changes. I understand it might be intimidating for him, given my success with Gabehart," Hamlin added.
Hamlin expressed confidence in Gibbs' decision to pair him with Gayle.
"I think it's a great mix of our thoughts. That's why I believe we've improved as a team. Sometimes, a fresh perspective and new ideas can teach you something, and I think he has," Hamlin said.
Now, they have an extra week to prepare for a championship race that has eluded Hamlin for over a decade.
"We're going to do everything we can to leave it all out there in Phoenix," Gayle said. "Whatever happens, happens. We'll focus on getting ready for the race. I don't have a magic formula, but I'll bring the fastest car I can, just like I've done all year."
Gayle revealed that they haven't talked about the championship all year. Instead, they've focused on race wins, knowing that's the key to their season-end goals.
"As the year progresses, you elevate your mindset and what you believe you can achieve," Gayle said. "We've had a great year, and we feel like we should be contenders for the championship."
"I don't think it will change our approach. We'll take it week by week and prepare for Phoenix. That's our focus."
What do you think? Will Gayle and Hamlin's partnership lead them to championship glory? Share your thoughts in the comments!
