Kyle Larson, a top NASCAR driver, has provided a unique glimpse into Jeff Gordon’s off-track personality, offering fans a closer look at the four-time NASCAR Cup Series champion beyond his on-track reputation. During a recent podcast appearance, Larson discussed how Jeff Gordon’s off-track persona balances his leadership at Hendrick Motorsports with an unexpected, playful side, sparking new interest in the Jeff Gordon off-track personality.
Kyle Larson Shares Candid Insights About Jeff Gordon
Though widely celebrated for steering Hendrick Motorsports as a competitive powerhouse and claiming several championships throughout his own driving career, Jeff Gordon is also recognized by his colleagues for his relaxed attitude beyond the racetrack. Kyle Larson, who began racing under Gordon’s leadership at Hendrick Motorsports in 2021, described their relationship as anything but typical for the motorsports industry.
The personal connection between Larson and Gordon extends back over a decade, having first become acquainted after Larson’s USAC racing season in 2011. Since then, Gordon has served as a key mentor for Larson, guiding him through important phases of his career.
In a conversation with Julian Edelman on the ‘Games With Names’ podcast, Larson described the multi-layered personality of his boss:
“Jeff is great, because he’s like..Jeff is funny because business Jeff, like Hendrick Motorsports Jeff, very serious, you know,”
—Kyle Larson, 2021 NASCAR Cup Series Champion
Larson emphasized how this duality makes it harder to view Gordon as just another corporate figure, especially given their informal dynamic.
“And it’s hard for me to take that serious because then I also see him at the club, you know, he’s like a DJ, right? He’s got his own setup, and yeah, so it’s hard for me to like, when he is getting serious, to take him fully serious, because he’s just a like a kid. He’s so cool. He’s down to earth, like it’s awesome,”
—Kyle Larson, 2021 NASCAR Cup Series Champion
Larson recounted how even when Gordon is handling important business matters for Hendrick Motorsports, he never loses a sense of approachability, often acting more like a peer than a boss.
Gordon’s Secret DJ Persona and Vacation Stories
During the podcast, Edelman asked the light-hearted question regarding Gordon’s DJ nickname, to which Larson admitted uncertainty while noting the team’s playful moniker:
“I donno if he’s gotta a DJ name,”
—Kyle Larson, 2021 NASCAR Cup Series Champion
Larson explained they sometimes refer to Gordon as “DJ 24/7,” hinting at his all-hours enthusiasm for music and entertainment. He further elaborated by recollecting a vacation spent together with their spouses, fellow driver Clint Bowyer, and other friends.
“We went to St.Barts. He invited me on vacation. It’s him and his wife, me and my wife, Clint Bowyer and his wife, and then another friend of theirs,”
—Kyle Larson, 2021 NASCAR Cup Series Champion
Larson remembered Gordon’s love for DJing extending even to their trips abroad:
“Rented this house, and dude, he rented a full like DJ set like I donno what do they call that? And then like speakers and all that. Just so he could DJ while we were on vacation. It was sick!”
—Kyle Larson, 2021 NASCAR Cup Series Champion
These anecdotes highlight how Gordon, despite his professional achievements and responsibilities, consistently brings a sense of fun and camaraderie to those around him.
Larson Reflects on Racing Culture in Pop Media
Later on the podcast, the discussion turned to popular NASCAR representations in entertainment. Edelman questioned Larson’s opinions on the 2006 movie Talladega Nights, known for its comedic moments and memorable quotes.
The film’s iconic line was brought up:
“If you’re not first, you’re last.”
—Will Ferrell as Ricky Bobby
Larson responded candidly, expressing mixed feelings about the way the movie shaped public perceptions of the sport:
“I — I mean I like the movie,”
—Kyle Larson, 2021 NASCAR Cup Series Champion
“I think it did not do anything good for our sport. I think it turned our sport into like a joke, unfortunately. But uh, it is — I mean that’s got to be like the most — one of the most popular race movies,”
—Kyle Larson, 2021 NASCAR Cup Series Champion
Despite the humorous elements, Larson noted the potential downside the film had on how NASCAR drivers and racing are seen by audiences outside the circle.
The Lasting Impression of Jeff Gordon’s Personality
Kyle Larson’s stories offer fans a rarely seen side of Jeff Gordon, portraying him as approachable, lighthearted, and deeply passionate about his off-track pursuits, including his love for DJing. This view of Jeff Gordon’s off-track personality adds a new layer to his legacy both within and beyond motorsports, reminding fans and competitors alike that true champions can lead with both determination and a sense of fun. As Hendrick Motorsports continues building its future, Gordon’s playful leadership style may inspire a new culture of camaraderie among NASCAR’s rising stars.
