Kyle Larson’s assertion of being the best driver in motorsports has faced renewed skepticism following a controversial on-track event at Gateway Motorsports Park. During the Enjoy Illinois 300, Larson, driving the No. 5 Hendrick Motorsports Chevy, collided with Ryan Blaney’s Penske Ford in a late-race battle for fifth place, causing Blaney to spin out. This incident fueled widespread criticism from NASCAR fans, who referenced Larson’s earlier bold claim in response to his recent performance struggles and on-track decisions.
Larson’s reputation suffered a significant blow as fans took to social media to express their frustration. One fan remarked,
“If Larson wasn’t in a Hendrick car he would be the most hated driver in NASCAR right now.”
This sentiment highlights the perceived leniency toward Larson due to his team affiliation.
Another observer bluntly criticized Larson’s driving ability, stating,
“It’s time we acknowledge Kyle Larson has some of the worst racecraft in NASCAR.”
Furthermore, some fans noted a double standard in how Larson handles criticism and aggressive racing tactics, with one user commenting,
“I like the guy but damn he can’t race and then he complains when they do the same to him. can’t wait for the Larson riders to defend him on this one.”
— Davanie (@davanierdguez)
Adding sarcasm to the backlash, a fan questioned Larson’s previously claimed status:
“But I’ve been told he’s the best driver on earth?”
accompanied by laughter emojis, reflecting the mounting skepticism surrounding his driver skills.
Background on Larson’s Controversial “Best Driver” Statement
In the summer of 2024, Kyle Larson sparked controversy by publicly claiming superiority over Max Verstappen, Red Bull‘s Formula One champion. Citing his three victories at the Knoxville Nationals within four years, Larson asserted his versatility across different racing disciplines. He told FloRacing,
“I honestly believe I’m better than him (Max Verstappen) as an all-around driver.”
Larson further challenged Verstappen’s adaptability by pointing out,
“There’s no way he could jump into a Sprint Car and win the Knoxville Nationals. He couldn’t win the Chili Bowl. And there’s no way he could take a Cup race at Bristol.”
These statements ignited debates among fans and experts across NASCAR and Formula One communities, questioning the validity of comparing drivers from vastly different racing styles.
Recent Performance Issues Undermining Larson’s Claims
Before the Gateway race, Larson’s performances showed signs of inconsistency. Following the regular-season finale at Daytona International Speedway, where Larson failed to finish in the top 10, his struggles extended to intermediate track events, including two Gateway races where he placed 19th and 12th. Such results have made fans question whether Larson’s self-assured statements match his current competitive form.
The incident with Blaney at Gateway particularly frustrated supporters and critics alike because Larson’s aggressive move, which led to the spin, seemed to contradict the finesse expected from a driver who claims to be the best overall. Critics argue that Larson’s mistakes and on-track decisions have damaged his credibility within the racing community.
Impact and Next Steps for Kyle Larson and NASCAR Fans
The ongoing backlash against Larson illustrates the volatility surrounding his public persona and racing conduct. While Larson remains a respected figure due to his 2021 Cup championship and multiple victories, the current wave of criticism may affect his rapport with fans and the perception of his driving capabilities. The controversy also reflects broader tensions within NASCAR about driver behavior and fairness on the track.
How Larson responds to these challenges in upcoming races will likely shape his standing among competitors and spectators. Continued on-track incidents or improved results could either deepen or alleviate the current backlash, making the next phase of the season critical for the Hendrick Motorsports driver’s reputation.
