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23XI Racing Releases Statement On Denny Hamlin Family Tragedy

Originally posted on The Spun | By Daniel Bates | Last updated Dec 30, 2025 4:01 PM ET

This past weekend was a tough one for Denny Hamlin and the 23XI team after tragedy struck the veteran driver and company co-owner's family at their home in Stanley, North Carolina.

According to several reports, Denny's father, Dennis, died Sunday night as a result of injuries sustained in a house fire. While Hamlin's mom, Mary Lou, remains in critical condition at a local burn center in Winston-Salem.

The heartbreaking incident has to hit especially close to home for 23XI co-founder Michael Jordan, who also lost his dad under tragic circumstances back in 1993 less than 200 miles away in Lumberton.

Nov 1, 2025; Avondale, Arizona, USA; NASCAR Cup Series driver Denny Hamlin (11) during qualifying at Phoenix Raceway. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images© Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images

23XI releases statement on Hamlin family tragedy

In a statement released to X on Tuesday, 23XI offered some words on the unfortunate events that transpired at the Hamlin family home on Sunday.

"Everyone at 23XI Racing is deeply saddened by the tragic news concerning the Hamlin family," the company's statement read. "We extend our deepest condolences to Denny and the entire Hamlin family during this difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers remain with the family and his mom."

Per The Athletic, the fire resulted in the complete loss of the home after firefighters fought the blaze for more than two hours. The house was built in 2015 and was owned by Denny's real estate company.

Firefighters on the scene estimate that 40-45% of the home was already burning by the times their crews were able to arrive.

Everyone at 23XI Racing is deeply saddened by the tragic news concerning the Hamlin family. We extend our deepest condolences to Denny and the entire Hamlin family during this difficult time.

Our thoughts and prayers remain with the family and his mom.
— 23XI Racing (@23XIRacing) December 30, 2025

Denny Hamlin mourns the loss of his dad in house fire

Denny Hamlin spoke often about his dad this NASCAR season, who was also battling a serious illness in the time leading up to his death. And after collecting his 60th Cup Series win in Las Vegas back in October, he spoke at-length about the sacrifices his family made so that he could have the life he has now.

“My parents had no money,” Hamlin said following the South Point 400. “My parents had very normal jobs, but they found a way. That way is a path I would never recommend anybody taking. Every credit card that comes to the mail— OK, we’ll use it. Asking people to help. Second and third mortgaging the house. All these things."

"The arguments I had to listen to— I’m in my room, and my mom and dad are going at it. One is saying, ‘I can’t do it anymore.’ The other one saying, ‘Please, just one more week.’ It’s great it’s all paid off.”

Our thoughts are certainly with all of those affected by this terrible house fire, including Denny and his loved ones. We hope his mother is able to pull through as she continues to recover from her injuries.

This article first appeared on The Spun and was syndicated with permission.

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