In November 2025, Kyle Larson secured his second NASCAR Cup Series championship by winning the season finale at Phoenix Raceway, an achievement that earned him widespread recognition across the sport. Among the many honors he received, the presentation of the Goodyear Gold Car on January 23 stood out as a significant tribute celebrating his accomplishment.
The Goodyear Gold Car has been awarded to the Cup Series champion annually since 1985. This year’s ceremony took place inside the Hendrick Motorsports shop, marking the first occasion the award was handed out within a team’s facility, highlighting the crucial role the organization played in Larson’s championship run.
A Unique Trophy with Meticulous Craftsmanship
The trophy itself is a 1/12-scale replica of Larson’s No. 5 Chevrolet Camaro, crafted meticulously and plated with 24-karat gold. Presented by Mark Stewart, the CEO and President of Goodyear, the Gold Car is often recognized by drivers as one of the most cherished awards in NASCAR.
Kyle Larson expressed his appreciation, saying,
Receiving the Goodyear Gold Car is incredibly special. It’s such a unique trophy in our sport, and it represents everything it takes to win a NASCAR Cup Series championship. To be able to accept it on the Hendrick Motorsports campus, in front of the men and women that work so hard, makes it even more meaningful.
Larson’s remarks underscore the importance of teamwork behind the driver’s success.
Michael Dunlap, a highly regarded model builder, has been responsible for designing every Goodyear Gold Car since the award’s inception. He uses exact measurements from the winning vehicle to create a detailed replica that includes intricate features such as the chassis, suspension, lug nuts, hood pins, and dashboard switches, all mirroring the champion’s actual car.
Mark Stewart Highlights the Enduring Partnership Between Goodyear and Hendrick Motorsports
Mark Stewart reflected on the significance of presenting the trophy at Hendrick Motorsports, stating,
We’re honored to present Kyle Larson with the Goodyear Gold Car in the shop where the actual championship car was born. Hendrick Motorsports and Goodyear have always been a winning combination in NASCAR, and the team remains a historic partner for us, having won 15 championships on Goodyear tires, and playing a pivotal role in milestone wins throughout our NASCAR history.
This collaboration has been critical to legendary achievements over the years.
Looking Ahead: The Future of the Goodyear Gold Car Award
Joey Logano currently holds the record for the most Goodyear Gold Car awards among active drivers, with three trophies in his collection. With the introduction of a new Chase format for the 2026 season, the next chapters of NASCAR’s championship story promise new excitement around who will claim the coveted Goodyear Gold Car next.
A trophy fit for a (two-time) champion.@KyleLarsonRacin is presented with his second @GoodyearRacing Gold Car. ✨ pic.twitter.com/Xe05dDbTon
— NASCAR (@NASCAR) January 23, 2026
