Kyle Larson, a three-time Cup Series winner and a key driver for Hendrick Motorsports, has been struggling through a significant performance slump since the Indy 500, according to <a href="https://www.big14news.com/nascar/”>NASCAR veteran Kevin Harvick. With just two races remaining before the playoffs begin, Harvick expressed public doubts about Larson’s championship chances heading into 2025, highlighting concerns over Larson’s form amid his recent results.
Over the past ten races, Larson has finished outside the top 15 on five occasions, an inconsistent record given the competitive strength of his Hendrick Motorsports vehicle. While Larson showed flashes of potential with strong top-5 finishes at Dover and the Indy 500, these were followed by disappointing results, including finishes outside the top 25 in the two weeks after Indy. This pattern has raised questions about his ability to regain consistent speed and momentum.
Kevin Harvick Compares Larson’s Struggles to William Byron’s Recovery
During a recent episode of the Happy Hour podcast, Harvick drew a comparison between Kyle Larson’s current slump and a similar rough patch experienced by Hendrick teammate William Byron. Byron, who also faced a challenging string of finishes, managed to break out of his slump with a win at Iowa and has since demonstrated impressive speed. Larson’s No. 5 car has yet to show a similar recovery, leaving his rhythm unsettled.
Now, the No. 24 didn’t have the finishes that they want, but they had the speed. I haven’t seen the speed out of the No. 5 that I’ve seen out of the No. 24. I see that as easier to motivate your guys around.
—Kevin Harvick, via Happy Hour podcast
Harvick noted that while Byron’s performance dipped, the underlying speed remained apparent, which helps keep team morale and motivation high. In contrast, Larson’s recent runs have lacked that visible pace, making it more challenging to rally his team around him during the downturn.
Hendrick Motorsports’ Support System Remains Strong for Larson
Despite the ongoing difficulties, Harvick expressed confidence in Hendrick Motorsports‘ ability to support their drivers through tough phases. He emphasized that the team has strong management, effective leadership, and the necessary resources to help their drivers rebound. Harvick suggested that Larson’s situation is more about finding the right mental and physical approach to leverage those assets.
But Hendrick Motorsports has a great way of navigating the downs to be able to keep their people engaged and motivated, just from good business practices more than anything, and management and good leadership.
—Kevin Harvick
Harvick underscored that Hendrick Motorsports’ experience in managing difficult stretches can help Larson regain his form, given the structure and culture the team fosters. Larson’s challenge now lies in translating that support into improved race results and consistent speed.
Root Cause of Larson’s Slump Traced Back to Indy 500
Harvick pinpointed the beginning of Larson’s downturn at the 2024 Indy 500, describing it as the origin of his current prolonged performance struggles. While he remains optimistic about Larson’s ability to recover, Harvick acknowledged the reality of the ongoing slump and its impact on Larson’s championship hopes.
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.
—Kevin Harvick
This observation aligns with Larson’s inconsistent results since Indy, as the driver has struggled to regain the momentum he held earlier in the season. The looming playoffs amplify the pressure to reverse course quickly if Larson wants to contend seriously for the championship in 2025.
Harvick Responds to Larson’s Criticism of “Talladega Nights” Movie
Aside from performance analysis, Harvick also weighed in on recent comments made by Kyle Larson regarding the NASCAR-themed comedy “Talladega Nights.” Larson and teammate William Byron have both expressed frustration that the movie portrayed NASCAR drivers in a humorous, sometimes mocking light, which they felt did not serve the sport well. Harvick, however, disagreed with their perspective, emphasizing his enjoyment of the film’s humor.
I thought it was hilarious. I liked it. I mean Talladega Nights 2, I know where we could re-enact the scene… It’s coming, it’s at the miserable point of building a house. Miserable. Yeah. Tired of paying for it and taking too long.
—Kevin Harvick
Harvick’s connection to the film is personal; after retiring, he purchased the mansion featured as Ricky Bobby’s home in the movie, highlighting his fondness for the cultural icon. While Larson’s critical view stems from valid concerns about NASCAR’s image, Harvick regards “Talladega Nights” primarily as a lighthearted comedy that should not be taken too seriously.
What Lies Ahead for Kyle Larson and Hendrick Motorsports
Kyle Larson’s ongoing performance slump underscores the pressures faced by top NASCAR drivers, especially as the playoffs draw near. Hendrick Motorsports’ resources and leadership remain strong assets that could help Larson overcome his struggles, but the driver must translate encouragement into on-track results. Kevin Harvick’s insights suggest that while Larson’s form has faltered since the Indy 500, a potential rebound is still within reach, positioning the veteran for a late-season push if he can rediscover his speed. As the 2025 championship battle approaches, all eyes will be on Larson to see if he can emerge from his slump and contend once more at the highest level.
