Denny Hamlin Honors Kyle Busch With Special Victory Lap and Flag After Historic Win at Michigan

Denny Hamlin now has 63 career wins in the NASCARCup Series. That official ties him all-time with the late Kyle Busch for 9th on the list. The two former teammates and friends are, for the moment, sharing a special place in NASCAR history together.

With a massive victory lap and burnout to follow, Hamlin held up a custom flag. Black, with the outline of a 1 and a white 8 to signify Busch's time at JGR in the No. 18 car and his final years at RCR in the No. 8.

This might end up being Denny Hamlin's most popular win ever. A special moment to honor a teammate and friend, gone far too soon. On the radio following the finish, Hamlin was heard saying, "We love you, KB." What a moment.

This one's for you, Rowdy. 8 pic.twitter.com/9YyOL2lblF

— FOX: NASCAR (@NASCARONFOX) June 7, 2026

It was a show yet again from Denny Hamlin. He won the pole award, but due to repairs needed to his car, had to go to the rear at the start of the race. Almost an identical situation to Nashville. The end result was identical, Hamlin in Victory Lane.

With Tyler Reddick a DNF in Stage 2 of the race, this gave Hamlin a real chance to close in on his 23XI Racing driver in the point standings. Three wins this season, and no finish worse than P16 since finishing P31 at the Daytona 500.

Reddick may have thought he had a comfortable lead for the regular season championship, but Hamlin is making a strong charge as the summer is starting.

After winning for the 63rd time in his career, it was only fitting for Denny Hamlin to fly the flag for Kyle Busch. His absence is still making an impact on the sport, and will continue making an impact all year long.

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This story was originally published June 7, 2026 at 4:07 PM.