VTM_TheKing_4

Denny Hamlin believes Chevrolet's manufacturer hierarchy leaves teams outside Hendrick Motorsports with little choice but to follow orders. Discussing Ross Chastain's role in helping Kyle Larson at Talladega, Hamlin described a chain of influence that runs from the driver to the crew chief, team, and Chevrolet, with Rick Hendrick ultimately holding the most power. Hamlin argued that Hendrick's control over Chevrolet's technical resources makes it difficult for other Chevy teams to receive equal treatment, questioning whether any organization outside Hendrick will ever be considered tier one with the manufacturer.