Dale Earnhardt Jr. questions whether another NASCAR driver can reach 60 Cup wins, names candidate
After witnessing Denny Hamlin secure his 60th NASCAR Cup Series victory, Dale Earnhardt Jr. expressed doubt about the possibility of another driver achieving the same feat. During the Dale Jr. Download podcast, Earnhardt analyzed which drivers have the potential to accumulate 60 career wins.
Earnhardt initially expressed confidence in Kyle Larson's ability to reach 60 wins. He then turned his attention to Joey Logano, suggesting that improved performance during the regular season is key to Logano's success. Logano, with 37 career wins, is projected to reach 50 wins and likely end his career with 55.
Another driver Earnhardt discussed was Brad Keselowski, who currently has 36 wins. Earnhardt expressed skepticism about Keselowski's ability to reach 60 wins, predicting that he will be fortunate to reach 40.
Earnhardt then revisited Larson, stating that he could achieve 60 wins if he dedicates himself to racing for an extended period. Larson, with 32 wins, may not have the full-time commitment in the Cup Series to reach 60 wins, as Earnhardt believes Larson could focus on dirt racing instead.
Earnhardt also mentioned Chase Elliott as a potential candidate for 60 wins, but he anticipates that Elliott will retire before reaching that milestone. Elliott currently has 21 wins in his career.
Earnhardt's perspective is influenced by the trend of drivers retiring at younger ages. He notes that it was common for drivers to race beyond 50 years ago, but the current landscape suggests that drivers are retiring earlier. Earnhardt acknowledges the lack of concrete evidence but questions the underlying factors.
Hamlin and Kyle Busch are the only active drivers with 60 wins. Busch has not won a race since the 2023 season, while Hamlin, at 44 years old, has won six races this year and is on track to secure his first Cup Series title.
