Kyle Larson recently shared his views on the Jimmie Johnson NASCAR GOAT debate during an appearance on the Field Day series hosted by YouTuber That Guy Garf. In the conversation, Larson highlighted Johnson’s exceptional achievements in the modern era of NASCAR, emphasizing the increased difficulty of winning amid evolving competition and car technologies.
When asked to name the greatest NASCAR driver of all time, Larson selected Jimmie Johnson, noting his record-breaking seven championships. He praised Johnson’s ability to secure five consecutive titles and two additional championships as an extraordinary feat, especially given the rising challenges in the sport.
“I think the greatest of all time would be Jimmy Johnson. I mean seven-time champion in the modern era of NASCAR, I think you know, I just think like it just gets tougher and tougher to win races and win championships with formats and cars getting better and closer and drivers getting better. So for what he did, winning five in a row and then another two like in the modern era is incredible.” —Kyle Larson
Jimmie Johnson, inducted into the NASCAR Hall of Fame in 2024, remains a defining figure in the sport. Currently, he co-owns Legacy Motor Club and is the only driver in NASCAR history to claim five consecutive titles from 2006 through 2010. Johnson also shares the record for most premier series championships, alongside legends Richard Petty and Dale Earnhardt.
Comparing Kyle Larson’s Racing Style and Personality to Jimmie Johnson
Kyle Larson’s talents have often drawn comparisons to Jimmie Johnson, especially during Johnson’s peak years. Steve Letarte, a former NASCAR crew chief, recently discussed this likeness following Larson’s third victory of the season at the AdventHealth 400 in Kansas.
On NASCAR’s Inside the Race segment, Letarte explained that although Larson and Johnson differ in many ways, they share a grounded and genuine character that stands out in the racing community.
“For me, his personality (Larson) reminds me a little of Jimmie in his prime. I was fortunate enough, crew chief in the building and saw Jimmie. I’ll admit from race 1 to championship seven to today, when I call Jimmie Johnson on the phone it’s the same guy. The conversation may change a little bit, but he is the same humble, aw shucks, even as a team owner, I just feel like he is as authentic as he can be. And I get a little bit of that out of Kyle Larson,” —Steve Letarte
Letarte noted that while Larson’s and Johnson’s personalities are not identical, their shared honesty and authenticity create a unique connection between the two racers, both on and off the track.
Kyle Larson’s Perspective on Being Considered Among the Greatest Drivers
Before the Viva Mexico 250 race, Kyle Larson addressed the ongoing conversation about who qualifies as the greatest driver worldwide. Though he acknowledged the public’s admiration, Larson maintained a humble outlook on his current status in the racing world.
He expressed gratitude for being compared to legendary drivers such as Tony Stewart, Jeff Gordon, AJ Foyt, and Mario Andretti, which motivates him to continue improving his career achievements.
“But I’m still, I’m only 32 and I’ve got a lot of racing left to do, and hope I can accomplish a lot more to really feel like I’m deserving of that credit, but I do appreciate it and it just makes me kind of have more drive to try and live up to that hype, I guess.” —Kyle Larson
Larson currently holds second place on the NASCAR Cup Series leaderboard with 569 points and leads the playoff standings by 23 points. His ongoing strong performance this season shows his determination to further solidify his place among racing’s elite.
The Enduring Legacy of Jimmie Johnson and Its Impact on Modern NASCAR
Jimmie Johnson’s record-setting career continues to influence current drivers and the sport as a whole. His five consecutive championships remain unmatched in NASCAR’s modern era, illustrating an extraordinary level of consistency and skill amid increasingly competitive conditions.
As Larson and other top racers chase their own successes, Johnson’s legacy serves as a benchmark for excellence and perseverance. With Johnson now involved as a team owner, his presence keeps shaping NASCAR’s future, while Larson’s rising career suggests the sport’s competitive spirit remains as strong as ever.
