NASCAR Cup Series Driver Kyle Busch didn’t hold back. During a recent appearance on FOX News Media’s Hang Out with Sean Hannity podcast, the veteran opened up about rivalries, reputation, and where he stands today.
The conversation quickly turned toward the “villain” label that has followed him for years. This time, NASCAR Cup Series Driver Kyle Busch made it clear he believes that role has shifted.
He pointed directly at Denny Hamlin, adding a new layer to an already tense dynamic between the two. Even after years of competition, the friction still feels real. The latest comments suggest that things between them may not settle anytime soon.
NASCAR Cup Series Driver Kyle Busch Says the “Villain” Role Has Changed
Busch addressed the label that has defined much of his career. For a long time, he has been seen as one of the most polarizing drivers in NASCAR. But in this interview, Nascar Cup Series Driver Kyle Busch suggested that the image is no longer his alone.
“Denny Hamlin, I think, is the oldest on the tour. He’s either 45 or 44. I think he’s kind of a villain, too.”
When Hannity pointed out Hamlin’s current position at Joe Gibbs Racing, Busch leaned into the idea.
“So he’s me-he took over my role.”
The exchange started light, but the meaning was clear. Busch believes the spotlight that once focused on him has moved. When Hannity joked that he is no longer Public Enemy No. 1, Busch responded quickly.
“Yeah, I passed it over to him. I gave him the playbook.”
The comments show how he now views his place in the sport. He still competes, but his tone suggests a shift away from being the center of controversy.
Denny Hamlin Comments Add Fuel to Rivalry
The conversation turned more direct when Busch spoke about his current relationship with Hamlin. Off the track, there is little contact.
“Not a whole lot, no,” Busch said when asked if they talk.
On track, he admitted there have been “a couple minor ones,” but he focused on Hamlin’s recent public remarks.
“He’s got his own podcast, and he’s been running his mouth lately, so he might get run into a guy.”
He followed that with a sharper claim.
“Yeah, he’s been telling me that I’m washed up and I can’t drive anymore.”
That moment stood out. It showed that even if tensions are not always visible during races, they still exist behind the scenes. Busch’s response also hinted that he is not ignoring it.
Career Reflection Brings Past Moments Back
Beyond the rivalry, NASCAR Cup Series Driver Kyle Busch revisited key moments from his career. He mentioned past battles with Joey Logano and Brad Keselowski, both of whom have had on-track incidents with him.
He also looked back at one of the most talked-about moments involving Dale Earnhardt Jr.. The crash between them became a defining highlight and still stands as part of his story.
Another major topic was the wreck that left him with two broken legs. He described the recovery process and how it tested him physically and mentally. He credited family, fans, and determination for helping him return.
Throughout the interview, NASCAR Cup Series Driver Kyle Busch mixed humor with direct answers. Busch spoke freely, offering a clear look at his mindset today. While he may say the role has shifted, the tension he described shows the rivalry is still active.
For now, the spotlight may have moved. But the story between Busch and Hamlin is not finished.
Kyle Busch Takes Aim at Denny Hamlin as Tension Resurfaces