Denny Hamlin expressed outrage after 23XI Racing driver Corey Heim was assaulted by several members of a rival late‑model team at Martinsville Speedway over the weekend.
After the ValleyStar Credit Union 300 late‑model race, the emerging NASCAR talent became involved in a dramatic confrontation at the venue’s well‑known hot‑dog stand.
He made contact with Treyten Lapcevich on the final restart, preventing Lapcevich from contesting the victory and securing second place as they crossed the finish line. Following the race, additional contact caused Heim to drive over Lapcevich’s vehicle, damaging both cars.
The incident escalated into a shocking brawl, during which multiple members of Chad Bryant Racing—including team owner Chad Bryant—cornered Heim near the hot‑dog stand. Several punches were thrown, and Heim did not retaliate. He was alone and clearly outnumbered, with Lapcevich absent from the confrontation. Heim had previously driven for Bryant in the ARCA Menards Series several years earlier.
Heim competes in the NASCAR Cup Series for 23XI Racing, a team co‑owned by Denny Hamlin and NBA legend Michael Jordan.
Denny Hamlin Condemns Attack on Corey Heim
Hamlin, clearly upset by the events at Martinsville, shared his unfiltered reaction on his weekly podcast, *Actions Detrimental*.
“I mean, this is pure classlessness from Chad Bryant, the team owner, and his crew. They waited for Corey to exit his car and his team before attacking him as he headed to his hauler.”
“I don’t know who oversees NASCAR Regional, but none of those individuals should remain in the pit lane for even a year. I demand a public explanation of their actions, and if there was no wrongdoing, I will be deeply concerned, but none of those cowards should be allowed in the pit lane going forward.”
Hamlin noted that Heim attempted to explain he had no intention of fighting, and he criticized the overall management of the incident.
“We need to regain control of the Martinsville situation before it spirals further out of control,” Hamlin said. “Clear, enforceable rules are required; any fighting should result in immediate removal from future short‑track events. I have no respect for those involved.”
