Kyle Larson is preparing to launch his 2026 title defense with renewed determination at Hendrick Motorsports, as Jeff Gordon shares confidence in both the team and the latest car. After a turbulent 2025 Cup Series season full of highs, lows, and crucial lessons, Larson and his crew are eager to make a stronger run for the championship.
Last season, Hendrick Motorsports experienced fluctuating performance. The 2025 campaign saw Joe Gibbs Racing’s Denny Hamlin emerge as a favorite for the championship, bolstered by his on-track successes and a compelling story. Although Hamlin was a formidable opponent, Larson remained a consistent challenge, even while facing difficulties that arose after his ambitious attempt at ‘The Double’ midway through the season.
A major factor impacting Larson’s results last year was the car itself. Hendrick Motorsports competed with a Chevrolet Camaro body that had become outdated, as it was based on a discontinued model. This development put the team at a disadvantage compared to rival manufacturers who had upgraded body designs, leaving Hendrick Motorsports to face tough questions about their competitiveness and Larson’s candidacy as a top contender for the Cup Series title.
Hendrick Motorsports Introduces a Car Upgrade to Close the Gap
Recognizing the need for improvement, Jeff Gordon and his team committed to serious off-season work to address the shortcomings of the previous car. Chevrolet’s introduction of an updated body for the Camaro ZL1, featuring notable aerodynamic revisions, has given the organization a fresh sense of optimism heading into the 2026 Cup Series season.
The improvements are so significant that Jeff Gordon believes the team has erased the performance gap with other manufacturers. Speaking about the changes and the team’s outlook, Gordon stated,
“I do think we’ve been a bit behind when you look at aerodynamics — our car versus some of our competitors. I feel like we’ve gotten ourselves on a level playing field with them, so I’m very excited about that.”
– Jeff Gordon, Team Executive
With the new Camaro ZL1 body, Hendrick Motorsports expects to be far more competitive and consistent, giving Kyle Larson the machinery required for a strong title challenge. The organization’s focus on adapting and advancing their technology demonstrates a serious commitment to future championships.
Momentum and Growth Fuel Optimism for 2026
In addition to technical enhancements, Jeff Gordon has noted the positive momentum within Hendrick Motorsports. Winning their fifteenth championship has only fueled the belief within the organization and across its campus, as the team remains fixated on building upon past achievements.
Gordon has expressed enthusiasm about the team’s current health, highlighting a period of stability and growth. He also sees the addition of Corey Day, who will be joining the team full-time through the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series, as another positive development that could further boost their performance in 2026.
Heading into the new season, Hendrick Motorsports is supported by a stronger car and a highly motivated team. With Kyle Larson ready to defend his title, the 2026 Cup Series promises to be an exciting follow-up, with stiff competition expected as the playing field has been leveled, and the organization is confident about its prospects for further success.
