Kyle Larson, renowned Hendrick Motorsports driver, recently shared his perspective on the excitement of major motorsport series, stating that, despite the fame of Formula 1, NASCAR and IndyCar offer a higher level of racing thrill. His comments came during a discussion before his second ‘double’ attempt, directly addressing the topic Kyle Larson compares NASCAR, IndyCar, and Formula 1 racing excitement.
In a podcast interview with Pat McAfee, Larson explored the distinctions between American racing series and Formula One. Pointing to his ongoing season, where a weather delay during the Indy 500 derailed his plans for the Coca-Cola 600, he reflected on the risks and unpredictability inherent in American motorsports. Missing the Coca-Cola 600 start also jeopardized his playoff position for the season.
Larson’s Take on Formula 1 Versus American Racing Series
When asked about the on-track action in each series, Kyle Larson highlighted the contrast between F1 and NASCAR’s approach to racing excitement. He said:
“The racing, the racing, is not what we are accustomed to in America. Like, I think you’re there. It’s crazy how big it is because, yeah, you’re right. Like, it’s not super exciting, but I think it’s the stuff outside of it, the celebrities that are there, the engineering, the money, just everything about that, you know, the big brands, you know, on the cars and stuff.”
—Kyle Larson, Hendrick Motorsports Driver
Expanding on this idea, Larson emphasized how much more thrilling and unpredictable he finds American racing, in contrast to the spectacle and glamour around Formula 1.
“But, you know, I feel like NASCAR and IndyCar here in America, like, you can’t find much more exciting racing what we have here, so I’m fortunate to get to run both of them, but I would definitely never turn down the opportunity to go,”
Larson added. —Kyle Larson, Hendrick Motorsports Driver
This season, Kyle Larson’s competitive results support his claim, as he currently tops the NASCAR Cup Series scoreboard. With 469 points from 12 starts, he has earned three victories, secured nine top-ten finishes, and stood in the top five on eight occasions. Larson also managed to clinch a pole position, demonstrating continued excellence regardless of format.
Challenges During the 2025 Indy 500 Qualifying
Kyle Larson addressed his experience with 2025 Indy 500 qualifying, stating that this year’s session was noticeably more difficult compared to previous attempts. Starting from P5 in 2024, Larson described how his new drive in the #17 Arrow McLaren Chevy felt less balanced, and the car’s handling limited his pace during the session.
Reflecting on the qualifying run, he shared his thoughts with reporter Holly Cain:
“It was fairly comfortable, just slightly less comfortable than what I felt last year in qualifying. I just got a little bit of a free moment into (Turn) 2 on the last lap, but other than that, I felt pretty balanced. I was happy with that. Obviously, with the balance it comes with a little bit lack of speed.”
—Kyle Larson, Hendrick Motorsports Driver
Despite not making it into the top ten, Larson remained pragmatic. Avoiding an accident was a positive takeaway for him after a tough session:
“But I didn’t crash, and that was a plus,”
he added. —Kyle Larson, Hendrick Motorsports Driver
For this year’s Indy 500, Larson will begin from P19, behind Robert Shwartzman, who claimed pole, along with Takuma Sato and Pato O’Ward, who completed the top three qualifiers.
Looking Ahead: Larson’s Influence and the American Racing Scene
Kyle Larson’s insights offer a candid look at the differences between American and international racing, focusing on the raw excitement of NASCAR and IndyCar. His comments, contextualized by his own mixed season and the logistical challenges of competing in both the NASCAR Cup Series and the Indy 500, highlight the unpredictable and demanding nature of American motorsports. Industry observers and fans will be watching to see how Larson’s dual participation continues to influence perceptions of racing on both sides of the Atlantic, as well as his ongoing performance in key events throughout the season.
