NASCAR announce Denny Hamlin playoff update as star pulls out of Mexico race

Denny Hamlin has officially been given a playoff waiver for his absence from this weekend's NASCAR Cup Series race at Mexico City.

NASCAR rules dictate that drivers must compete in every race of the season to be eligible for the playoffs, but certain exceptions are allowed and written into the rulebook.

Among those exceptions are injury and the birth of a child, with the latter being the reason for Hamlin's absence this weekend after his fiancee Jordan Fish gave birth this week.

The 44-year-old will be replaced in the No. 11 Joe Gibbs Racing car by Ryan Truex, who has been preparing to step in for Hamlin at the last couple of races.

READ MORE: NASCAR Cup Series 2025: Mexico City start times, schedule, and how to watch live on TV

NASCAR confirm Hamlin waiver

NASCAR confirmed ahead of the race that the veteran's waiver had been granted, writing: "Hamlin’s absence will mark his first Cup race missed since March 2014, when he was sidelined from a race at Auto Club Speedway due to health reasons.

"A three-time winner in 2025, Hamlin has requested and been granted a waiver to remain eligible for the Cup Series Playoffs, retaining the 18 playoff points he has earned despite missing this weekend’s event."

In a social media post captioned 'See you at Pocano', Hamlin wrote: "We are happy to announce the birth of our son. Everyone is doing well. My main priority is to be here at home for Jordan and our family over the next few days when she is able to go home and we transition to life as a family of five."

The 23XI Racing co-owner currently sits third on points behind William Byron and Kyle Larson, while his three race wins tie Christopher Bell for the most on the year.

READ MORE: Could NASCAR lose Michael Jordan and 23XI after latest court ruling? Team owner provides crucial update

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