Thanks for the memories, FedEx

As we watch the sky of Nevada darken ahead of another night race, elsewhere, the sun was quietly setting on a partnership dating back to 2006.

FedEx has stood beside beloved stock car racer Denny Hamlin since he made his Cup debut almost two decades ago. The relationship is one of the longest driver/brand partnerships remaining in the sport – perhaps beaten only by Bass Pro Shops and Truex. However, FedEx has gradually disappeared from the No.11 Toyota, supporting fewer races every year.

Hamlin posted a sombre video on race morning (November 10), thanking FedEx and essentially confirming its exit. "Thank you, FedEx, for being there from the start," a voiceover from Hamlin began in the video. "All the wins, and all the losses... thank you for letting me be me. For always making a difference. For helping make this kid from Virginia's dream come true. Thank you, FedEx, for everything."

Hamlin won his very first race with those colours on the car, taking the chequered flag in the 2006 Clash at Daytona as a 25-year-old rookie. 47 of his 54 Cup wins over the years came with FedEx as the primary sponsor. It’s a sad day as the sport says goodbye to one of its longest collaborations.