Prayers are pouring in for veteran NASCAR Cup Series driver Denny Hamlin at the Daytona 500.
Hamlin, one of the top drivers in the sport, is racing in the big Cup Series race for the first time since losing his father, Dennis Hamlin.
The father of the NASCAR Cup Series star died in a house fire.
“NASCAR extends its deepest condolences to Denny Hamlin and the entire Hamlin family. Dennis Hamlin instilled a love of racing in his son, and sacrificed greatly to develop Denny into a world-class talent in the sport. We also continue to offer our thoughts and prayers to Denny’s mother, Mary Lou, and hope for her full recovery.”
© Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images
Hamlin opened up about the loss of his father in an interview with Tom Rinaldi before the Daytona 600.
NASCAR fans are sending their prayers
"Praying for him today," one wrote.
"Thinking of Denny Hamlin's family today," another shared.
"Made me tear up a bit. Praying for his family today," one shared.
Our thoughts are with the friends and family members of the Hamlin family on Sunday afternoon.
The Daytona 500 is airing on FOX.