Kyle Larson’s 2025 playoff progress has become a focal point as his season, once filled with promise, has faced new challenges. Despite recent setbacks on the track, the Hendrick Motorsports driver remains hopeful that his form can improve in the coming races.
Larson’s Strong Season Start Followed by Difficulties
The year began strongly for Larson, who captured three victories and secured eight top-five finishes in the initial twelve races of 2025. His early successes fueled high expectations for the playoffs. However, after taking on a double-duty schedule, Larson’s momentum shifted, and his performance began to decline.
Seeking stability, Larson returned to dirt racing in the High Limit Racing Series, hoping that reconnecting with his roots would spark renewed confidence. Nevertheless, the dominant form he displayed in the spring has yet to fully reappear.
Playoff Setbacks and Signs of Progress
Larson’s playoff campaign started on a shaky note. In the opening round at Darlington, the entire Hendrick Motorsports team struggled, and Larson finished 19th. The next race at Gateway resulted in a 12th-place showing, while Bristol ended in disappointment, with Larson falling to 32nd. Nonetheless, he chooses to see the positives amidst adversity.
At New Hampshire, following Round 12, Larson reflected on the team’s progress, stating,
“I feel like we are really close and capable of getting back to form. There’s times throughout weekends and races where it might not show up on TV or on the results, but I feel like we’re we’re good. So, feel like we’ve quietly been making progress.”
– Kyle Larson, Driver
He further commented,
“But yeah, then we qualify bad. So, it’s like every time I feel like we’re going to, you make a step in the right direction, we don’t quite get it. But, we’re only through qualifying, so we still have the race tomorrow.”
– Kyle Larson, Driver
Larson emphasized that race results do not always capture the underlying improvements. He noted their speed at Iowa before late-race incidents, better performance at Richmond compared to previous years, and competitiveness at Gateway—where, despite a 12th-place finish, he felt the car was among the strongest. Larson believes steady gains are happening, even if they escape public notice, and remains optimistic about progress within the garage.
Mixed Outcomes at New Hampshire and Team Dynamics
Larson’s track record at New Hampshire reveals persistence mixed with challenges. His average finish of 11.2 in twelve starts underscores consistency, yet he has only managed to lead eight laps at Loudon since 2014. He has often come close to the front but has yet to claim a breakthrough victory at this venue.
Recent practice and qualifying sessions delivered mixed news. Larson will start 16th at New Hampshire, while Hendrick Motorsports teammates William Byron and Alex Bowman secured fifth and seventh starting spots, respectively. Chase Elliott faces a more difficult challenge from 27th on the grid.
What’s at Stake for Larson and Hendrick Motorsports
The upcoming race stands as a pivotal moment for both Larson and Hendrick Motorsports. A strong showing could relieve mounting pressure and reaffirm their playoff potential, while another tough result may intensify scrutiny and questions about the team’s trajectory. As the field prepares for the green flag at New Hampshire, all eyes are on Kyle Larson’s 2025 playoff progress and whether his resilience and optimism will drive a late-season turnaround.
