Kyle Larson has acknowledged challenges in maintaining his earlier dominant pace this NASCAR season, highlighting recent difficulties with his car’s speed. Despite these setbacks, Larson remains optimistic about his team’s improved ability to maximize race-day performance, and he expects this progress to benefit them during the playoffs. Currently, Larson leads the playoff standings with three victories to his name this year.
After a strong rebound with a win at Kansas Speedway following a poor showing at the Indy-Charlotte doubleheader, Larson has since struggled to stay at the front of the pack. He has not led any laps since Kansas and experienced a Did Not Finish (DNF) at the Mexico City race. However, his effort at Echopark Speedway demonstrated resilience, as he navigated multiple crashes and cautions to secure a 17th-place finish amid a chaotic event that saw nearly 36 of 40 cars involved in accidents.
Larson discussed his season status with The Podium Finish, stating,
“I would say up until the last four weeks, our car speed was really good, and we were executing really well. And then, I feel like here the last handful [of] weeks, our speed [has] maybe not [been] as dominant as we’ve been, but I feel like we’re executing even better in maximizing our days, which is really important in this sport at this level.”
“I think having runs like that throughout the middle of the season or regular season, it really prepares you for the Playoffs,” he added.
In the In-Season Challenge held in Atlanta, Larson was edged out by Tyler Reddick during Round 1. Heading into the upcoming race at Chicago, Larson is positioned third in the driver standings, trailing Hendrick Motorsports teammate and championship leader William Byron by 42 points.
Larson Rules Out Another Attempt at the Indy-Charlotte Double
Kyle Larson openly expressed that he has no plans to attempt the demanding Indy-Charlotte double in 2026. The Hendrick Motorsports driver faced significant setbacks in previous years, with two consecutive DNFs during this doubleheader and being unable to participate in the 2024 Coke 600 due to weather-related delays. During the highly incident-filled weekend at Echopark Speedway, Larson dispelled speculation about another grueling 1,100-mile challenge.
“I don’t have any desire to do the double again. It’s just it didn’t go well the last two years and crashing aside like you know this year, like we weren’t gona be able to get it both in. It’s just too tight,” he said.
Larson’s previous attempt at the 2025 Coke 600 saw him leading before losing control and crashing into the wall, followed by involvement in another wreck during Stage 2, which ended his race effort prematurely. The last driver to successfully complete both races in the same day was two-time Cup Series champion Tony Stewart. Nevertheless, Larson hinted that he is still considering a one-time appearance at the Indy 500.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Kyle Larson’s wife?
A. Kyle Larson’s wife, Katelyn Larson, is enjoying time with their children.
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A. According to Bravo’s Andy Cohen, Kyle Richards will return for the 15th season of The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills. Fans need not worry, as the Halloween Ends star will continue to be a part of the show.
