The ongoing rivalry between Formula 1 and NASCAR has divided motorsport fans for years. Although Formula 1 boasts a vast global audience, Kyle Larson questions whether it truly represents the highest level of racing challenge. The 2021 NASCAR champion acknowledges Max Verstappen as the finest driver he has seen but remains skeptical about Formula 1’s claim to supremacy in the sport.
Viewership Figures Highlight Formula 1’s Global Reach
Formula 1’s worldwide popularity is evident, with an average of 70.3 million viewers tuning in per race during the 2021 season. By contrast, NASCAR attracted just over three million viewers per race in 2022, marking its strongest performance in four years. Despite these numbers, Larson cautions that popularity does not necessarily reflect the ultimate test of driving ability.
Larson’s Insights on Perceptions Between Formula 1 and NASCAR Drivers
During a recent discussion on the ‘Games With Names’ podcast, Larson was asked if he believes Formula 1 drivers see themselves as superior to NASCAR competitors. He responded with uncertainty, laughing, “I have no clue.”
“I never talked to any of them, but I would imagine I feel like they probably do just because the perception and media makes it out to be that way. But then again, I don’t know.” —Kyle Larson
He suggested that the perceived superiority might stem more from media portrayal than actual opinion, expressing doubt about how drivers truly view each other’s skills.
Considering Talent Beyond Formula 1’s Roster
Larson also reflected on the wide range of skilled drivers who never made it into Formula 1 yet found success in other major series such as IndyCar and sports car racing. He mentioned drivers like Alex Palou as examples of talent flourishing outside F1.
“I think they probably also, you know there’s a lot of people that they probably grew up racing with that didn’t quite make it to Formula 1, that are now racing IndyCar like Alex Palou, or really a lot of guys that go to, you know, IndyCar or sports car racing,”
“They probably, those drivers in F1 that have made it, they probably know that they are extremely good and just didn’t like timing didn’t work out. So, I don’t know. That’s a good question. I’d think, maybe they don’t think that they are the best,”
—Kyle Larson
These comments suggest that Larson believes the level of talent is spread across different racing disciplines, rather than concentrated solely in Formula 1.
Verstappen’s Skill Earns High Praise from Larson
Despite voicing concerns over Formula 1’s status, Larson did not hesitate to applaud Max Verstappen as the best driver he has witnessed in any motorsport category.
“Max (Verstappen) the best, but you know, maybe some of them know that a guy like Alex Palou probably could have done just fine in Formula 1.”
—Kyle Larson
Larson’s Interest in Formula 1 Remains Unfulfilled
While Larson has expressed curiosity about racing a Formula 1 car, the chance to compete in the sport has not yet come. Reflecting on this during an appearance on The Pat McAfee Show, he explained the difficulties associated with transitioning from his background of dirt tracks and oval racing.
“Never been asked to drive in F1,”
“I think it’s tough coming from my background of dirt tracks and ovals.”
—Kyle Larson
What This Means for Racing Fans and the Future
Larson’s candid remarks highlight the ongoing debate about what discipline represents the pinnacle of motorsport. His praise for Verstappen confirms the exceptional talent seen in Formula 1, but his reservations underscore that top-tier racing exists in varied forms beyond it. As the landscape of motorsport continues to evolve, fans may see more cross-disciplinary interest and recognition of skill in multiple series.
