Kyle Larson revives Terry Labonte’s iconic colors at Darlington Raceway, bringing back a legendary look from NASCAR’s Throwback Weekend. The design holds deep meaning, tied to a historic moment in Terry Labonte’s career. Decades later, it remains one of the most recognizable schemes in the sport. Now, Kyle Larson is adding his own chapter to its story. The tribute stands out on the track, sparking conversations about its lasting impact and the connection between past and present.
Key Highlights
- Kyle Larson celebrates Terry Labonte by featuring his classic colors on the No. 5 Chevrolet during the Goodyear 400.
- Larson’s tribute coincides with NASCAR’s Throwback Weekend, highlighting Labonte’s 2003 Southern 500 victory at Darlington.
- Labonte’s iconic “tiger stripes” and vibrant colors adorn Larson’s car, honoring his lasting impact on NASCAR.
- Larson’s participation bridges his current success with NASCAR’s storied past, respecting racing legends like Labonte.
- The homage underscores Labonte’s legacy, with 22 Cup Series wins, two championships, and a Hall of Fame induction.
Kyle Larson Honors Terry Labonte Again at Darlington
At the Goodyear 400 at Darlington Raceway, Kyle Larson once again celebrates NASCAR legend Terry Labonte by adorning his No. 5 Hendrick Motorsports Chevrolet with Labonte’s classic colors.
This homage marks a continuation of Larson’s commitment to honoring past NASCAR greats during the sport’s famed Throwback Weekend. Known for its deep-rooted appreciation of motorsport heritage, this event provides an opportunity for drivers to pay tribute to their predecessors.
Larson’s tribute is particularly poignant, as Labonte’s legacy is cemented in NASCAR history, especially with his memorable 2003 Southern 500 victory at Darlington.
The choice to mirror Labonte’s iconic colors speaks volumes about Larson’s respect for the Hall of Famer’s contributions to racing. By donning the celebrated scheme, Larson intertwines his current successes with the rich history of the sport.
A Classic Scheme Returns to Darlington
Labonte’s victory at Darlington with the original scheme remains a defining moment in his storied career. That win cemented his place in NASCAR history, standing as one of his most celebrated achievements on the track.
This one’s cereal-ously cool. 🔥 Check it out!
— Hendrick Motorsports (@TeamHendrick) March 26, 2025
The striking “tiger stripes” and bold colors of the design have become an unmistakable symbol for NASCAR fans. Decades later, the scheme remains one of the most recognizable and beloved paint jobs ever seen in the sport.
This tribute highlights the lasting significance of Labonte’s unforgettable Southern 500 triumph. The design’s return serves as a powerful reminder of his enduring impact and the legacy he left on NASCAR history.
Kyle Larson’s History with Throwback Weekend
Kyle Larson’s engagement with NASCAR’s Throwback Weekend has become a noteworthy aspect of his racing career. In the previous season, Larson paid homage to Terry Labonte by sporting the iconic late ’90s Kellogg’s scheme. This was the same design Labonte used to secure his alternate NASCAR Cup Series championship in 1996.
Larson’s tribute, however, ended unexpectedly; despite leading 15 laps in the Goodyear 400, a crash relegated him to a 34th-place finish.
Nevertheless, Larson’s history at Darlington Raceway is marked by considerable achievements, including a victory at the prestigious Southern 500 in 2023.
Terry Labonte’s Legacy and Kyle Larson’s Recent Success
While Terry Labonte’s legacy in NASCAR is firmly cemented with 22 Cup Series wins and two championships, his influence continues to echo through drivers like Kyle Larson. Labonte’s Hall of Fame induction in 2016 solidified his standing as a revered figure in the sport.
In parallel, Larson is crafting his own remarkable career, recently achieving his 30th Cup Series victory at Homestead-Miami Speedway. This milestone places Larson among an elite group as the 30th driver in NASCAR history to reach such a feat.
- Labonte’s Championships: 1984 and 1996, key moments in NASCAR history.
- Larson’s Recent Achievement: 30 wins, marking an important milestone alongside NASCAR legends.
- Current Standings: Larson is in second place, just behind teammate William Byron, showcasing his consistent performance.
Other Throwback Schemes and Race Details
As the anticipation builds for the Goodyear 400 at Darlington, the excitement is further amplified by a series of nostalgic throwback schemes.
Hendrick Motorsports is embracing its storied past, with William Byron and Chase Elliott joining Kyle Larson in this tribute. Byron will honor Jeff Gordon by donning the iconic “Last Ride” scheme from 2015, a nod to Gordon’s illustrious career and unforgettable final race.
Meanwhile, Elliott pays homage to Ken Schrader’s 1994 car, a fixture in Hendrick Motorsports‘ rich history.
Scheduled for Sunday, April 6, at 3:00 p.m. ET, the Goodyear 400 promises an exhilarating spectacle.
Broadcast live on FOX Sports 1 and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio, fans worldwide will witness these vibrant homages to NASCAR legends.
News in Brief: Kyle Larson Revives Terry Labonte’s Iconic Colors at Darlington
Kyle Larson’s tribute to Terry Labonte at the Goodyear 400 emphasizes the deep connection between NASCAR’s past and present. By featuring Labonte’s iconic “tiger stripes” on his No. 5 Chevrolet, Larson honors a crucial moment in racing history while showcasing his respect for the legends who paved the way. This homage not only highlights Larson’s appreciation for NASCAR’s rich legacy but also strengthens the enduring impact of past champions on today’s drivers, keeping the sport’s vibrant history alive.
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