Denny Hamlin’s partnership with Progressive Insurance represents a new beginning for the #11 Toyota Camry XSE
While saying goodbye to FedEx marks the end of a historic era, the arrival of Progressive ensures that Hamlin remains well-supported as he competes in the 2025 NASCAR Cup Series season.
With key races, fan anticipation, and the endorsement of industry veterans like Kenny Wallace, this sponsorship deal is set to make waves in the NASCAR community.
As the season unfolds, all eyes will be on Hamlin and JGR to see how they perform under their new banner.
For NASCAR fans, the excitement is just beginning. With a new look and a renewed sense of competition, Denny Hamlin and Progressive Insurance are ready to take on the challenges of the 2025 season and beyond.
Denny Hamlin’s 20-year partnership with FedEx will go down as one of the most enduring and successful driver-sponsor relationships in NASCAR history. While their official collaboration has come to an end, the impact of their time together will continue to be felt.
Hamlin’s declaration that he “bleeds purple” is a testament to the deep bond formed over two decades. Even as he moves forward with new sponsors, FedEx will always be a part of his racing journey.
NASCAR fans will forever associate Hamlin with the brand, and his legacy with FedEx will stand as a shining example of the power of long-term partnerships in sports.
Also Read: Justin Allgaier Sympathizes with Denny Hamlin’s Struggles While Eyeing Title Glory
Table of Contents
Denny Hamlin Lands Progressive Insurance as New Sponsor for 2025 Season
A New Era for Joe Gibbs Racing and Denny Hamlin
On Friday, March 15, Joe Gibbs Racing (JGR) officially announced that Progressive Insurance would be the new primary sponsor for their veteran driver, Denny Hamlin.1
This partnership marks a significant milestone in Hamlin’s career as he transitions into the 2025 NASCAR Cup Series season with a fresh look and a new financial backer.
For nearly two decades, Hamlin was synonymous with FedEx, which had been his primary sponsor since he debuted in NASCAR’s top-tier racing series in 2005.
However, with FedEx concluding its sponsorship at the end of the 2024 season, JGR was tasked with securing a new sponsor to support the #11 Toyota Camry XSE. Progressive Insurance stepped in to fill the void, ensuring Hamlin remains a competitive force on the track.
Progressive Insurance Enters the Spotlight
Progressive Insurance is no stranger to the NASCAR scene. The company previously sponsored Ryan Newman in the 2020 season when he drove for RFK Racing.
Their return to the Cup Series with Joe Gibbs Racing signals their commitment to investing in one of the most popular motorsports in America.
The partnership between Progressive and JGR will officially debut at the Homestead-Miami Speedway race on March 23, 2025.
Hamlin’s new livery will feature a striking baby blue paint scheme with the “Progressive” logo prominently displayed below the window. As part of the agreement, Progressive will serve as the primary sponsor for 18 races in the upcoming season.
Key Races Featuring the Progressive Sponsorship
Several high-profile races will prominently showcase the Progressive Insurance sponsorship on Hamlin’s car, including:
- The All-Star Race at North Wilkesboro – A fan-favorite non-points event that showcases the sport’s top talent in a thrilling showdown.
- The Chicago Street Course – A relatively new addition to the NASCAR calendar, providing an urban racing experience with a unique challenge.
- The Brickyard 400 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway – A prestigious event held at one of the most famous racing venues in the world.
- The Championship Four at Phoenix Raceway – The final race of the season where the NASCAR Cup Series champion is determined.
Kenny Wallace Weighs In on the Deal
The news of Progressive Insurance joining forces with Hamlin and JGR quickly gained traction in the NASCAR community.
Former NASCAR Cup Series driver and FOX Sports analyst Kenny Wallace expressed his excitement about the deal on social media, tweeting:
“THIS is a big deal for @NASCAR and the teams 🏁”
Wallace’s statement underscores the significance of a major brand like Progressive investing in the sport.
A strong sponsorship presence is crucial for teams and drivers, as it ensures financial stability, competitive resources, and the ability to attract other business partners.
Denny Hamlin and FedEx Part Ways:The End of an Era
The departure of FedEx as Hamlin’s long-time sponsor marks the end of one of the longest-running driver-sponsor relationships in NASCAR history.2
Since 2005, Hamlin’s #11 car had been synonymous with the FedEx brand, making this transition a historic moment in both his career and JGR’s legacy.
FedEx’s exit highlights the shifting landscape of NASCAR sponsorships, as companies evaluate their marketing investments and seek new ways to engage with fans.
While losing a sponsor of FedEx’s stature could have been a significant setback, JGR’s ability to secure Progressive Insurance ensures that Hamlin will continue to race with strong financial backing.
Now that’s progressive pic.twitter.com/ukj50eGQes
— Denny Hamlin (@dennyhamlin) March 18, 2025
The Business of NASCAR Sponsorships
Sponsorships are the lifeblood of NASCAR, providing teams with the resources needed to develop competitive cars, pay personnel, and maintain operations.
Over the years, sponsorship models have evolved, with companies opting for multi-race deals rather than season-long commitments.
In Hamlin’s case, Progressive Insurance’s 18-race sponsorship means that JGR will likely seek additional sponsors to cover the remaining events in the 2025 season.
This approach allows brands to maximize their marketing impact while giving teams the financial flexibility to sustain operations.
Denny Hamlin: Fan Reactions
Fans have expressed a mix of emotions regarding the new sponsorship. While some are excited to see a fresh livery on Hamlin’s car, others feel nostalgic about the FedEx era coming to an end.3
Social media discussions have highlighted curiosity about how the Progressive Insurance partnership will impact JGR’s branding and marketing strategies.
Expectations are high for Hamlin in the 2025 season. With a new sponsor, a refreshed look, and continued support from JGR, he is positioned to remain a dominant force in the Cup Series.
His ability to adapt to change and maintain strong performances will be crucial in determining how successful this new chapter will be.
The Broader Impact on NASCAR
Progressive Insurance’s entry as a primary sponsor has broader implications for NASCAR as a whole.
It signals that major corporations continue to see value in investing in the sport, which is essential for its growth and sustainability.
As NASCAR continues to attract new sponsors and partners, teams and drivers will benefit from increased financial stability.
Additionally, fans may see more engaging marketing campaigns and activations from brands like Progressive, further enhancing the sport’s appeal.
What This Means for Hamlin’s Future
Denny Hamlin remains one of the most successful drivers in NASCAR, with multiple wins and a reputation as a fierce competitor.
Despite never securing a Cup Series championship, he consistently contends for top positions and has built a legacy that few can match.
With Progressive Insurance now backing him for the majority of the 2025 season, Hamlin has a solid foundation to continue his pursuit of a title.
The sponsorship deal not only provides financial stability but also strengthens his visibility and marketability in the sport.
Also Read: Justin Allgaier Sympathizes with Denny Hamlin’s Struggles While Eyeing Title Glory
Denny Hamlin’s Emotional Farewell
After two decades with FedEx, parting ways was far from easy for Hamlin. The veteran driver was candid about his feelings, emphasizing that his relationship with FedEx extended beyond business.
“It’s certainly emotional because of the relationship that I’ve had with them for 19 years,” Hamlin said, reflecting on his time with the company.
“There’s not many out there anymore that are around that long, especially with all the opportunities to sponsor different sports leagues and arenas.”
His words highlighted the rarity of such long-standing sponsorships in modern motorsports. Hamlin’s bond with FedEx was not just about financial support; it was about shared values, trust, and the deep connections he had built with FedEx employees and executives.
“I Bleed Purple”: A Lasting Legacy
One of the most poignant moments in Hamlin’s farewell message was his declaration: “I bleed purple.” This statement encapsulated just how much FedEx had become a part of his identity.
Even after the sponsorship ended, Hamlin emphasized that his connection with the brand would remain strong.
“Every time that a FedEx truck goes by, my kids are yelling, ‘Daddy,’” he shared. “That’s some of that brand awareness that I hear from fans, as well. Whether they are going to be on my racecar in the future or not, doesn’t matter, I’m still going to be a part of the purple family.”
These words resonated with fans and highlighted the impact that such partnerships have beyond the racetrack.
Hamlin’s association with FedEx was not just about winning races; it was about building a legacy that would endure even after the sponsorship ended.
FedEx’s Impact on Denny Hamlin’s Career
The influence of FedEx on Hamlin’s career is immeasurable. Having a consistent sponsor for 20 years allowed him to focus entirely on performance without the added stress of securing funding.
This stability played a crucial role in his development into one of NASCAR’s elite drivers.
With FedEx’s backing, Hamlin achieved 54 career victories (as of 2024), with 47 of those coming under the FedEx sponsorship.
Some of his most iconic moments in NASCAR—such as his Daytona 500 victories and multiple playoff appearances—came with the company’s signature purple and orange livery on his car.
View this post on Instagram
The Evolution of NASCAR Sponsorships
Hamlin’s separation from FedEx also sheds light on the evolving landscape of sponsorship in NASCAR.
Over the years, the sport has seen a shift from full-season sponsors to multiple companies sharing sponsorship responsibilities for a single team. The days of one company funding an entire season for a driver are becoming increasingly rare.
For teams and drivers, adapting to this new reality means securing multiple partnerships to cover expenses. While it brings financial challenges, it also opens the door for new brands to enter the sport. As Hamlin moves forward, he and JGR will need to establish new sponsorship deals to ensure continued success.
Hamlin’s Future Without FedEx
As Hamlin steps into a new chapter of his career, the absence of FedEx on his car will be a significant visual change for longtime fans. However, this transition does not signal the end of his competitive drive.
At 43 years old, Hamlin remains one of the top drivers in the Cup Series and continues to chase his first championship title.
While JGR is expected to secure new sponsors, Hamlin’s personal brand remains strong. His ownership stake in 23XI Racing, a team he co-founded with NBA legend Michael Jordan, also provides additional opportunities for sponsorship collaborations.
Also Read: Denny Hamlin Reacts to Kyle Petty’s Harsh Criticism of His Atlanta Strategy and More
