NASCAR veteran Denny Hamlin openly criticized Kyle Larson for a series of recent mistakes during races, sparking debate about media leniency toward the popular driver. Speaking on his podcast, Hamlin focused particularly on Larson’s missteps at the World Wide Technology Raceway Cup Series event, pointing out how these errors have gone underreported amid usual media scrutiny.
Detailed Analysis of Larson’s Costly Misjudgments on the Track
During the Actions Detrimental podcast, Hamlin described Larson’s attempt to disrupt Ryan Blaney’s progress as a major miscalculation. He explained that Larson’s effort to slow Blaney by maneuvering his car into the left side door went drastically wrong due to poor timing and distance judgment.
All he’s (Kyle Larson) trying to do is go up there and slow the 12 down by ramming air into his left side door. And he misjudged it by like eight feet,
Hamlin said.
I mean, it was a lot. I don’t know. It’s a mistake. And we’ve definitely we’ve seen some Larson mistakes here lately.
Hamlin also recalled Larson’s involvement in the Xfinity Series earlier in the season where similar errors occurred, indicating a troubling pattern rather than isolated incidents. As a Joe Gibbs Racing driver, Hamlin’s observation underscores increased concerns about Larson’s consistency behind the wheel.
Perception of Media and Fan Protection Shielding Larson from Criticism
Hamlin expressed surprise at the apparent lack of intense media scrutiny directed at Larson compared to how other drivers are often criticized. Despite Larson’s growing fan support, Hamlin suggested this popularity might be influencing a softer media stance on his repeated mistakes.
Yeah. I mean, I think largely because the most of the fan base likes him, so you’re not, I mean, you’re going to stick up for your guy, right?
Hamlin explained.
When questioned further about the media’s unusually light approach, Hamlin admitted uncertainty but agreed that some degree of criticism is warranted given the frequency of Larson’s misjudgments.
I would say I don’t know the answer to that. I agree some criticism is deserved. He’s misjudging a lot. But you just, I guess, in the back of your mind think surely that’s not intentional. So you give him a pass.
Broader Implications of Unequal Treatment for Drivers in NASCAR Coverage
This frank discussion raises questions about potential favoritism in NASCAR media coverage, where Larson, despite multiple mistakes, consistently receives a more forgiving narrative. As the 2021 Cup champion and a top attraction in the sport, Larson’s reputation appears to grant him a buffer not extended to many of his competitors.
Hamlin’s comments may prompt further examination of how media and fans respond to driver errors, particularly when star power could be influencing the level of criticism delivered. The ongoing debate around fairness in racing coverage highlights the challenges of balancing driver popularity against accountability on the track.
