5 most polarizing NASCAR drivers of the modern era ft. Denny Hamlin

NASCAR fandom is often split in two. Some drivers are well-liked among a certain group of fans but hated by others. Kyle Petty and Darrell Waltrip also experienced that divide during their time.

Here are the top five most polarizing active drivers in the NASCAR Cup Series.

#5. Ross Chastain

Ross Chastain has become a modern wildcard. The No. 1 Trackhouse Racing driver's famous "wall ride" on the final lap at Martinsville Raceway shocked fans. Since then, he has raced on the edge, pursuing wins but also wrecking fellow competitors and burning goodwill.

Some fans love him for bringing unpredictability back to NASCAR. Others resent him for what they call reckless driving and inconsistent results.

#4. Ty Gibbs

Ty Gibbs rose fast through the ranks and has drawn controversy early in his career by making bold moves. In the Xfinity Series, he punted a teammate to win the championship when he did not even need to race hard. Many fans saw that as unsportsmanlike. Others argue he showed grit and a willingness to fight.

Some fans also view him as the spoiled kid. That image was reinforced after a public spat with his Joe Gibbs Racing teammate, Denny Hamlin, and his avoiding reporters afterwards.

#3. Joey Logano

Joey Logano has also built a reputation as one of the most aggressive racers in the NASCAR Cup Series. His win-at-all-costs style has sparked multiple feuds that split fan opinion along the lines of a fair race versus dirty driving.

Some fans admire Logano's relentlessness, but others resent him for wrecking friends and championship hopes. His recent 2024 Cup championship win just added to similar complaints that he 'barely earned it.'

#2. Denny Hamlin

Denny Hamlin has emerged as arguably the most polarizing active driver in NASCAR. He admits that he embraces the role and enjoys the noise. The 60-time Cup winner speaks his mind. Hamlin runs near the front every season and speaks openly about NASCAR rules and money. Some fans call him arrogant or hypocritical and dislike his candid media presence.

Some respect his honesty and willingness to challenge his own team drivers on track, and his leadership in court.

#1. Kyle Busch

Kyle Busch has raw talent and a confrontational edge. That mix divides fans almost more than anyone. He has won across NASCAR's top three national series more than any active driver. The two-time Cup champion is known to lash out and react poorly to losses. Some have criticized him for a surly attitude or for celebrating wins with what they see as arrogance.

For others, he is a rightful champion who races hard. Rowdy Nation stands by him no matter what.