Kyle Larson on F1 impact NASCAR has become a talking point as the popularity of Formula One continues to rise across the United States, leaving NASCAR’s expansion ambitions facing new challenges. Larson, a standout driver from Hendrick Motorsports, believes the heightened appeal of F1 makes it harder for NASCAR to grow at the pace it desires.
Formula One’s Influence on the American Motorsports Landscape
For years, NASCAR and Formula One developed on separate tracks, each enjoying a distinct fan base. In recent times, however, F1’s audience in the United States has surged, challenging NASCAR’s long-time dominance in American motorsport. On the Field Day podcast hosted by Adam Garfield, Larson openly discussed this evolving rivalry and the hurdles it presents to NASCAR’s efforts to expand.
Through platforms like the popular docuseries Drive to Survive, Formula One has reached new American audiences, which has brought fresh attention to the series but introduced complications for NASCAR. As Larson put it,
“I don’t know if it’s taken it (NASCAR’s growth and audience) away. Maybe at times it makes it harder for us to grow as quickly as we want to. We’re in a growth but I think it maybe could be steeper.”
—Kyle Larson, Hendrick Motorsports Driver
Despite these challenges, Larson remains confident in NASCAR’s core product, arguing that its racing is more dynamic and features more action compared to F1, even as Formula One draws big names, larger budgets, and extensive technological innovation. Larson highlighted,
“I just think F1 has that cool factor because there’s just billions of dollars in it. Celebrities show up and all that. The technology in the cars is crazy. But if you’re looking for pure racing, our product is amazing. There’s actual passing. There are battles for the lead. Formula One, they have to have DRS to even allow passing. That kind of makes it fake in my opinion,”
—Kyle Larson, Hendrick Motorsports Driver
NASCAR’s Efforts to Attract Attention Amid Rising Competition
Larson acknowledged that while NASCAR may lack F1’s global celebrity aura, the series is more technically complex than many perceive. In an effort to reignite public interest to levels seen decades ago, NASCAR has launched new initiatives, including its own Netflix docuseries Full Speed and an international points-paying Cup Series race in Mexico City. These strategic moves aim to keep NASCAR prominent in the minds of American motorsport fans and counteract Formula One’s increasing presence.
The ongoing push by Formula One into the U.S. market, paired with NASCAR’s attempts to modernize and expand internationally, has set the stage for fierce competition. Whether NASCAR can reclaim the momentum of its golden years remains uncertain as both series reshape their strategies.
Kyle Larson’s Prospects Beyond NASCAR
Larson has already demonstrated his versatility by joining the IndyCar Series and competing in the prestigious Indianapolis 500. His performance has fueled speculation among motorsport fans about the possibility of Larson making the leap to Formula One, especially given his status as one of the most accomplished drivers in NASCAR today.
Despite the buzz, Larson explained that an F1 seat has not been offered to him yet.
“Never been asked to drive in F1. I think it’s tough coming from my background of dirt tracks and ovals.”
—Kyle Larson, Hendrick Motorsports Driver. While he continues to enjoy racing in both NASCAR and IndyCar, Larson did not dismiss the idea of trying Formula One if the opportunity ever arises.
Looking Ahead: NASCAR’s Response to Formula One’s American Surge
With the motorsport landscape evolving and F1’s American popularity at an all-time high, NASCAR’s response will be critical to its future growth. Initiatives like new racing formats, international events, and unique media partnerships may help to close the gap and keep NASCAR a central force in American racing culture.
Kyle Larson, Adam Garfield, and key names in the motorsport series continue to shape the dialogue as both NASCAR and Formula One adjust to shifting fan bases and new industry dynamics. The rivalry, fueled by emerging stars and cross-series ambitions, is likely to remain intense in the coming years, influencing both organizations’ strategies in the United States and beyond.
