Kyle Larson’s NASCAR performance concerns have escalated this summer as the No. 5 Chevrolet team struggles to meet its usual high standards. Despite securing three wins this season, Larson’s recent performances, including a last-place finish at Watkins Glen, are raising alarms just weeks before the playoffs begin.
Kevin Harvick expressed worry over Larson’s current situation, pointing out a noticeable slump that began earlier in the year and continues to impact the team’s consistency and results heading into critical races.
Hendrick Motorsports’ Usual Resilience Tested by Ongoing Challenges
Harvick spoke candidly about Hendrick Motorsports’ ability to manage difficult periods but noted the team is currently not performing at its desired level. He acknowledged the team’s efforts behind the scenes, with crew members diligently working to repair and improve the car even after setbacks.
This is a typical Hendrick Motorsports type of attitude. You heard it out of William Byron last week after they won that race. They have a great way of managing the downs to be able to keep everybody motivated, everybody engaged,
Harvick stated, via the latest episode of Kevin Harvick’s Happy Hour.
No matter how many times that No. 5 car has been in a garage, you see those guys under the hood, digging, trying to fix the car to get back out on the racetrack. Now, they’ve gained two or three points by getting the fastest lap. They get the car back out on the racetrack. Obviously, you don’t want to have the issues going to the racetrack from a mechanical side, but this team’s not been at the level that they want to be.
Harvick also compared Larson’s situation to that of teammate William Byron in the No. 24 car, who has demonstrated strong speed despite some disappointing finishes. This contrast highlights the difficulties Larson and his crew have faced recently, making the usual motivation strategies more challenging.
Tracing the Slump Back to the Indy Race
Harvick identified the start of Larson’s downturn at the Indianapolis race, suggesting that the problems have persisted since then without resolution. Larson’s attempt at completing “The Double” in 2025 is seen as a turning point, after which his results noticeably declined.
So, that’s the part — I think they’ll show back up at some point, but it hasn’t been great. … I think when you look back at it, it’s still — the issues started at Indy. I mean, you can definitely point back to where the slump started. They obviously haven’t got out of it yet.
Following that event, Larson has only managed three top-five finishes and recorded five finishes of 28th place or worse since the Coca-Cola 600. This pattern is unusual for a driver of Larson’s caliber and adds pressure as the playoff races get closer.
Looking Ahead to Richmond and the Playoffs
Despite the troubling recent results, Harvick stressed that the No. 5 Chevrolet team cannot be counted out. He expressed cautious optimism that Larson will regain form soon, especially as the team approaches important playoff events.
Kyle Larson has a strong history at Richmond Raceway, having won twice there, which gives some hope for a rebound in the upcoming race. Turning around the performance slump at this juncture is critical not only for Larson’s championship hopes but also for Hendrick Motorsports’ overall momentum heading into the postseason.
The Impact of Performance Slumps on Team Dynamics and Strategy
The difficulties faced by Larson and Hendrick Motorsports illustrate the challenges top NASCAR teams endure when a driver experiences a performance decline. Maintaining motivation and teamwork becomes vital when results do not meet expectations.
Harvick pointed to the strong leadership and management practices within Hendrick Motorsports as key factors in navigating tough phases, though this period is testing those strengths more than usual. The team’s ability to stay engaged and focused will likely influence their success as the playoffs approach.
