In a major development ahead of the 2026 NASCAR season at the Daytona 500, 2025 Cup Series champion Kyle Larson has signed a long-term extension with Hendrick Motorsports. This new deal ensures Larson remains a central figure with the team through the 2031 season, solidifying his role in the organization well beyond his previous contract expiration at the end of 2026.
This contract extension highlights not only Larson’s on-track success but also his significant influence on the business side of Hendrick Motorsports. The team has benefited from over $80 million in television exposure and garnered tens of millions of social media engagements through Larson’s association with the brand. HendrickCars.com’s sponsorship, featured on Larson’s distinctive blue, white, and red paint scheme, has become one of the most recognizable in the Cup Series and extends Larson’s presence beyond NASCAR into his dirt racing ventures.
Larson expressed his enthusiasm about continuing with Hendrick Motorsports, saying,
“I’m incredibly grateful to continue my career with Hendrick Motorsports and HendrickCars.com. This team, this organization and this family have given me everything I need to compete at the highest level. We’ve accomplished a lot together but I truly believe the best is still ahead. I’m excited to keep chasing wins and championships with Cliff and the 5 team for many more years.”
Kyle Larson, NASCAR Cup Series Champion
Team owner Rick Hendrick praised both Larson and crew chief Cliff Daniels, stating,
“When you look at what it takes to succeed at the highest level year after year, it starts with people. Kyle is one of the most complete drivers in our sport. Cliff is a true servant leader who brings out the best in everyone around him and sets the standard for how we go to the track.”
Rick Hendrick, Hendrick Motorsports Owner
Ongoing Success Anchored by Stability and Partnership
Since joining Hendrick Motorsports in 2021, Kyle Larson has firmly established himself as one of the top drivers in NASCAR, accumulating 26 Cup Series wins and two championships. His performance places him among the elite Hall of Famers at Hendrick, with only Jeff Gordon and Jimmie Johnson having more victories and titles for the organization.
Larson holds one of the highest winning percentages in the team’s history, second only to Tim Richmond. This achievement underscores his status as a defining driver of his generation within the sport’s most successful Cup Series team.
Recognizing his value, Hendrick Motorsports acted swiftly to prevent Larson’s contract from becoming a potential negotiating issue by securing a long-term commitment well ahead of the original 2026 expiration. The new agreement also extends the partnerships with crew chief Cliff Daniels and the primary sponsor HendrickCars.com, ensuring continuity within the entire No. 5 operation.
The collaboration between Larson and Daniels has become one of the strongest driver-crew chief duos in NASCAR. Together, they have achieved wins in three of NASCAR’s four prestigious Crown Jewel events. The only remaining major victory that eludes Larson is the Daytona 500, despite twelve attempts over his career.
Looking Ahead to Continued Dominance on the Track
As the 2026 season approaches, Larson enters as the reigning Cup Series champion, equipped with the support of a familiar and well-established team. The extension with Hendrick Motorsports guarantees Larson’s focus will remain on adding more race victories and championship titles.
This long-term commitment not only affirms Larson’s importance to Hendrick Motorsports but also sets the stage for the team to maintain its competitive edge in NASCAR’s evolving landscape. Fans and competitors alike will be watching closely as Larson and the No. 5 crew aim to build on their accomplishments, chase new milestones, and potentially complete Larson’s quest for the elusive Daytona 500 triumph.
