Denny Hamlin calls out Jordan Bianchi, completely shuts down NASCAR playoff take

Denny Hamlin had an issue with a take on the NASCAR playoff format from insider Jordan Bianchi. On X/Twitter, Dirty Mo Media posted a video of Bianchi talking about the NASCAR playoffs on The Teardown podcast.

“Today again showed me why whatever playoff format you go to, I do not want to lose the win and you’re in aspect of this sport,” Bianchi said. “I want to see drivers during the regular season rewarded for winning races with a playoff berth.

“I think it’s good, I think it heightens the stakes, I think it makes things more exciting, it adds another story, and today is a perfect example. Not only with Ryan Preece, but also Brad Keselowski. Brad Keselowski today, if he would have won, or if you can win one of the next three races, saving his season, that’s a big story, and the sport is better for that, and you will not convince me otherwise.

Fellow NASCAR insider and Teardown co-host Jeff Gluck reposted the video and asked if Bianchi was right and if he had a point. That’s when Denny Hamlin shared his thoughts.

“No, he does not,” Hamlin said. “He’s picking entertainment from casuals perspective over the sport’s integrity and our core fan base. Numbers don’t lie.”

Denny Hamlin has ideas for a new NASCAR playoff format

NASCAR legend Mark Martin replied to Hamlin’s post, writing, “Spitting truth here.” Martin has been an advocate of NASCAR going back to the points system to determine the Cup Series Champion. Hamlin has been outspoken about making changes to the playoff system.

Before the 2025 season began, Hamlin suggested doubling playoff points and cutting he playoff field from 16 to 12. “I think you should double all the playoff points. Just double everything,” Hamlin said on the Actions Detrimental podcast.

“Instead of Kyle Larson going into the playoffs with 45 bonus points, he’s got 90. He earned it. … There’s many, many changes. I would love to see. Double all the playoff points, and then run it 10 races out. I don’t think we’re going to get rid of the elimination. I think that’s probably here to stay. But do you reward the win and you’re in? I believe the championship deserves a round. One race, it’s got to be the small sample size of all sports.”

NASCAR has three more regular-season races before the playoffs begin on Aug. 31. Hamlin has clinched a playoff spot, as he has won four races this year. He is still seeking his first Cup Series championship after winning 58 Cup Series races in his career.