Kyle Larson is once again at the gates of a NASCAR season, clad in Hendrick Motorsports race overalls. Yet another chance to become a two-time champion beckons Larson as he embarks on his fifth season with the powerhouse team. In an interview, the #5 Chevrolet driver looked back at the journey so far, sharing that he wished he had joined HMS much earlier in his career.
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“Everybody wants to end up racing for a team that can showcase their abilities and talents, and hopefully (they) can win lots of races and championships. Thankfully, we’ve been able to do all of that,” Larson told RACER magazine.
Kyle has won 23 races in the last four seasons, and a Cup Series championship. No driver has more victories than him in this period. And HMS has helped him cement his place as one of the best in the current generation.
“It’s been a great time, and part of me wishes I could have been there a long time ago, and maybe my numbers would be closer to the great-greats of the day,” added Larson.
Kyle is, by no means, trying to belittle his former team, Chip Ganassi Racing. He had six Cup race victories in his time at Ganassi. He never made a Championship 4 appearance, his highest finish being P6 in 2019. Larson believes his time there helped him become the well-rounded driver he is today.
However, driving for HMS, led by the legendary Rick Hendrick, is an inspiring experience in itself for drivers.
Larson has incredible respect for Hendrick
Hendrick has been a highly influential figure in the lives of many NASCAR drivers over these past four decades. And Larson happens to be one of the most talented among them. The #5 Chevrolet driver spoke highly of Rick’s leadership abilities, calling him one of the greatest persons in his life.
“Rick Hendrick is probably the greatest person I’ve ever had in my life besides my wife, kids, and parents, as far as being a role model and all that,” said Larson. “Rick and Jeff Gordon, especially. There are just so many great leaders there.”
Larson won six races in 2024 but missed out on the title. He will be hoping to hit the mark this time around. And the support from Hendrick Motorsports and Rick will ensure he cherishes every bit of the season while revving for glory.
