🟠 “Didn’t Work Out”: Denny Hamlin Reacts After Pocono Strategy Falls Flat, as JGR Teammate Chase Briscoe Seals the Victory
Pocono Raceway – June 22, 2025
What looked like a potential win for veteran driver Denny Hamlin at Pocono turned into a frustrating finish, as his late-race pit strategy failed to deliver — while teammate Chase Briscoe took full advantage and cruised to a stunning victory for Joe Gibbs Racing (JGR).
Hamlin, who led multiple laps and ran in the top five for most of the race, rolled the dice on a fuel-only stop late in Stage 3, hoping for a caution that never came.
“It just didn’t work out,” Hamlin said post-race. “We took a chance, but track position didn’t hold like we hoped. Congrats to Chase — he was fast and clean all day.”
🏁 Briscoe’s Breakthrough Win
Chase Briscoe, who joined JGR earlier this season, capitalized on Hamlin’s pit gamble and clean air to secure his first win under the JGR banner, holding off a hard-charging Kyle Larson in the final 10 laps.
“This one means a lot,” Briscoe said. “To win for Joe Gibbs Racing, at Pocono, and with guys like Denny and Martin Truex Jr. on the team — it’s unbelievable.”
📉 Strategy Misfire, Not Speed
Hamlin’s Toyota showed solid speed all weekend, but his race unraveled after crew chief Chris Gabehart opted for a risky pit call aimed at leapfrogging traffic during the long green-flag run.
The result? Hamlin faded to a P7 finish, while Briscoe claimed the checkered flag and the playoff points that come with it.
🗣️ Fan Reaction
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“Tough break for Denny, but that’s racing.”
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“Briscoe is really coming into his own. Watch out.”
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“JGR’s got a stacked garage this year.”
