Kyle Larson’s 2025 season, marked by three wins, one pole, 11 top-five results, and 17 top-tens in 30 events, has become a central topic in NASCAR discussions. Despite his previous prowess and a strong start to the year, the reigning favorite’s inconsistent results have drawn attention from fans and observers as the Cup Series makes its return to Kansas, casting doubt on his championship prospects and putting his 2025 struggles under the spotlight.
The 31-year-old driver arrived ahead of the Kansas race signifying resilience, aiming to turn the tide of an unpredictable campaign that has seen the No. 5 Hendrick Motorsports team fluctuate between highs and lows. While supporters remain hopeful, the up-and-down trajectory has made this season one of the most intensely scrutinized periods of Larson’s career.
Struggles and Comparisons Highlight Changing Dynamics in Larson’s Season
Kevin Harvick, a former Cup Series champion and respected NASCAR voice, noted the noticeable decline in Larson’s 2025 form compared to previous title runs. Instead of favoring Larson for a championship run, Harvick picked William Byron and the No. 24 car as stronger contenders for the final four, signaling broader doubts about Larson’s chances this year.
Last season at this stage, Larson had already delivered four victories, ten top-five finishes, and thirteen top-tens, with an average finish of 13.6. Larson’s playoff history also set a high bar, with eight wins and 19 top-fives in 50 postseason starts. However, 2025 has proven more volatile, as a rise in competition from drivers such as Ryan Blaney and William Byron has complicated the championship landscape, intensifying the challenge for the No. 5 Chevrolet.
Despite Larson’s continued status as a top pick at Kansas Speedway, thanks to his strong prior showings, his momentum since May has noticeably cooled. NASCAR analyst Steven Taranto emphasized the shift, noting a stark change following Larson’s early-season dominance.
Back in May, Kyle Larson led 221 of 267 laps on his way to a Kansas win that was his third in the first 12 races of 2025. Since then he’s led just 126 laps and only has three top five finishes.
– Steven Taranto, NASCAR Analyst
Fans and insiders alike acknowledge Larson’s immense skill, yet the statistical downturn from May through September stands out. However, many believe that this challenging stretch will not overshadow his overall legacy.
Competitive Pressure and Technical Setbacks Undermine Larson’s Momentum
The case of Penske’s Ryan Blaney offers a contrast, as Blaney’s steadiness has emerged as a benchmark this season. Larson still displayed flashes of dominance, such as at Bristol where he commanded 411 of 500 laps, but these moments became rarer over the summer, and the No. 5 team’s average finish dipped to 17.4 across 18 races between May and September.
Technical difficulties have compounded matters for Hendrick Motorsports. The No. 5 car, along with other HMS entries, has faced challenges finding optimal setups on both short and intermediate tracks, while also contending with fierce competition from Toyota-backed teams. These variables have converged to make 2025 arguably one of Larson’s most challenging seasons in recent years.
Looking Ahead: Will Larson Return to Form or Fade From the Championship Chase?
As the NASCAR Cup Series advances further into the playoff rounds, the spotlight remains on Kyle Larson’s 2025 season struggles and whether the talented driver can recapture his former dominance. With the intensity of the championship hunt increasing, all eyes watch to see if the No. 5 Hendrick Motorsports team can address their inconsistencies, or if the rise of rivals like William Byron and Ryan Blaney will keep Larson from serious title contention. The pressure remains high as the campaign reaches its decisive stages, leaving the outcome and Larson’s pursuit of another championship hanging in the balance.
Back in May, Kyle Larson led 221 of 267 laps on his way to a Kansas win that was his third in the first 12 races of 2025.
Since then he's led just 126 laps and only has three top five finishes. pic.twitter.com/dqtcCMCpZv
— Steven Taranto (@STaranto92) September 26, 2025
