Still plans to drive full season before having surgery.

http://www.nascar.com/2010/news/headlines/cup/01/24/dhamlin.tears.acl/index.html

sucks for him...

Shouldn't be a problem for him unless he gets in an accident which could make the injury worse. I had a torn ACL for a year as it was originally dignosed as a knee sprain before an MRI confirmed otherwise. I was able to do all basic functions (including driving) as the ACL only affects lateral movements.

o great now this is going to be his excuse as to why he doesn't win every race this year.

It really shouldn't affect his driving. If you have seen those cockpit cameras they don't move an inch in those cars. His knee would be in the same position the entire race. He will only be flexing his ankle on the pedals.

From what I understand it is his left knee. This is used for the clutch, and brake. I'm sure it will bother him.

I had a torn left ACL and meniscus for a year and it didn't bother my driving.

No doubt it will bother him..and it will probably affect his driving as well. As 2quik said..another excuse for Hamlin!