At last weekend’s FireKeepers Casino 400 at Michigan, an intense on-track scuffle between NASCAR stars Kyle Larson and Denny Hamlin erupted—and neither man is backing down after the race.
During the second stage, the No. 5 car driven by Larson claimed the outside lane as they barreled through the turn. Hamlin, in the No. 11, attempted an aggressive pass, got slightly loose, and nearly clipped Larson—prompting Larson to flash a furious message over the radio. Larson didn’t mince words, sharply criticizing Hamlin: “Look out the f*ing windshield, Denny, instead of the mirror.”**
That radio exchange quickly became public, capturing the attention of fans and media alike. It wasn’t the first time Larson and Hamlin have tangled. Earlier this year at Bristol, Larson cruised to victory and taunted Hamlin afterward, saying he was glad to halt Hamlin’s streak of wins. Hamlin later responded by praising the Bristol Xfinity winner who beat Larson, poking fun at him in return .
In Michigan, Hamlin wasn’t shy either. He later acknowledged the tension by taunting fans post-race—a move many interpreted as him rubbing salt in the wound .
This ongoing back-and-forth highlights the escalating rivalry between these two top-tier drivers. High-stakes battles on the track have bled into heated radio exchanges and pointed public comments. The friction adds another layer of drama to the NASCAR season—and provides plenty for fans to dissect until the next showdown. Will Larson retaliate? Will Hamlin double down on his mental games? It’s clear: this rivalry is far from over.
