James Dennis Alan Hamlin, born November 18, 1980, is an American professional stock car racing driver and team owner competing full-time in the NASCAR Cup Series for Joe Gibbs Racing in the No. 11 Toyota Camry XSE, sponsored by FedEx.[1][2][3][5] As the longest-tenured driver at Joe Gibbs Racing with over 500 career starts, he ranks among the sport's elite, holding fourth in total Cup Series wins (60) and third in poles among active drivers, with victories at 16 of 24 tracks across all styles.[1][2][3] Hamlin debuted in 2006, winning twice as a rookie—the first to qualify for the playoffs—and earning Rookie of the Year honors.[2][3] He has qualified for the playoffs in 13 of 14 full seasons, finishing top-five in points five times, including runner-up in 2010 with a career-high eight wins.[1][2][3][4] Key achievements include three Daytona 500 victories (2016, 2019, 2020), making him one of five drivers to win consecutively; three Southern 500s (2010, 2017, 2021); the 2022 Coca-Cola 600; and the 2015 All-Star Race ($1 million prize).[1][2][3][4] In 2024, he won the Würth 400 at Dover, tying Lee Petty for 12th on the all-time wins list, and reached his 50th victory at Pocono.[2][3][4] Hamlin co-owns 23XI Racing with Michael Jordan, fielding NASCAR Cup Series teams.[2][3] In 2025, he recorded six wins, five poles, 14 top-fives, and 18 top-tens across 35 starts, finishing second in standings with 5,031 points.[5] Entering his 21st full season in 2026, he remains a championship contender and respected leader.[3]