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NASCAR Driver Named Biggest 'Villain' In The Sport

Originally posted on The Spun | By Chris Rosvoglou | Last updated May 13, 2025 4:16 PM ET

There was a time where Kyle Busch was undeniably the biggest villain in NASCAR. However, that’s no longer the case.

Busch, a two-time Cup Series champion, embraced the villain role at every level of NASCAR. He didn’t mind being arrogant after a victory or pointing the finger at others after a disappointing result. For better or worse, he was must-see TV every time he stepped on the track.

So, who is the top villain in NASCAR as of this year? Believe it or not, that title belongs to Busch’s former Joe Gibbs Racing teammate.

Denny Hamlin, who is currently third in the Cup Series standings, has become one of the most polarizing drivers in NASCAR. He received plenty of boos when he won back-to-back races at Darlington and Martinsville this season.

On the latest episode of Hamlin’s “Actions Detrimental” podcast, he talked about being NASCAR’s villain in an interview with Busch.

Busch sarcastically congratulated Hamlin on being NASCAR’s villain. He said, “Way to go, buddy. Way to go.”

Hamlin then praised Busch for making the transition from villain to fan favorite.

“I think fans are seeing you, especially as a dad, for how you truly are,” Hamlin said, via On3. “Sometimes, I thought when you were younger, your fiercest rival was yourself because you were so intense, that people would read that into that’s not really how Kyle is as a person, that’s who he is as a racer. That’s in the ring. You can do that when you do the things he does behind the wheel.”

It wouldn’t surprise us if Hamlin has a similar career path as Busch. For now though, he’s enjoying every second as public enemy No. 1.

The Cup Series will resume this Sunday with the All-Star Race at North Wilkesboro Speedway.

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

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