Kyle Larson, a standout figure in the NASCAR world and current Hendrick Motorsports (HMS) driver, has identified the 2021 NASCAR Cup Series championship finale as the coolest win of his career. This victory not only marked a pinnacle moment for Larson but also highlighted his drive to maintain his status in the sport through the 2026 season, leveraging a new playoffs format that rewards consistency. His aim is to defend his championship by producing strong, steady performances throughout the season.
The 2021 season was particularly remarkable for Larson, who secured his first championship in his debut year with HMS by winning an impressive 10 races, including the decisive season-ending race at Phoenix. This achievement was a significant personal triumph, especially following the difficulties Larson faced during the 2020 season.
It was a great season. We won 10 races that year. And then, to cap it off with the championship at Phoenix was just a dream come true. And kind of celebrating with your team. The moment of all that was amazing.
Kyle Larson said via Out of Bounds.
Larson described this championship win as the highlight of his NASCAR career, expressing that despite the challenges last season—where he was unable to clinch the finale and saw Ryan Blaney claim both the race victory and the championship—this moment remains unmatched. Blaney’s No. 12 team outperformed in the 2023 championship, underscoring the competitive nature of the sport.
And I know I’m with a great team, so I’ve got a good opportunity every year to relive that feeling. But it just takes a lot of hard work. But that championship is definitely one of the coolest moments of my career, but definitely the coolest in NASCAR.
Kyle Larson added.
Benefits of Racing with Hendrick Motorsports
Larson also emphasized the advantages of competing with Hendrick Motorsports, regarded as the most successful team in NASCAR history. He credited the organization’s leadership and resources for enabling consistent success on the track. Among the key figures guiding HMS, Larson highlighted team owner Rick Hendrick and leaders Jeff Gordon, Jeff Andrews, and Chad Canals, whose expertise provides a strong foundation for championship-level competition.
Yeah, I mean it’s the best it’s the best organization, you know, leading, you know, all the records and stuff. So, it’s really great for me to get to race with Rick Hendrick and you have great leaders like Jeff Gordon and Jeff Andrews and Chad Canals, you know, leading the team and um you having all the resources that you need to go to, you know, try and compete for wins and championships.
Kyle Larson said.
Feeling fortunate to be part of this elite team, Larson expressed his desire to continue racing for HMS over many years. He acknowledged that being in a Hendrick Motorsports Chevrolet consistently puts him in a position to contend for wins, a testament to the team’s sustained excellence.
So, I’m very lucky and fortunate to be in the position I am. And you know, I just uh hope that I could be here a long time and win lots more races and hopefully a couple more championships along the way…You know, I think with Hendrick Motorsports, you always feel like you have a chance to win when you go to the racetrack.
Kyle Larson added.
Looking Ahead: Larson’s Prospects in Upcoming Seasons
The combination of Larson’s skill, the power of Hendrick Motorsports, and the modified playoff system positions him to potentially dominate the NASCAR Cup Series in upcoming seasons, perhaps echoing the dominance shown by Jimmie Johnson in the 2000s. Observers and fans alike are eager to see how Larson and the No. 5 team will perform in 2026 and beyond, as Larson aims to continue adding championships and race wins to his already impressive record.
