Kyle Larson, a veteran driver for Hendrick Motorsports, is approaching the end of the 2025 NASCAR Cup Series season with strong momentum as he prepares for the finale in Phoenix. With Kyle Larson retirement plans becoming a topic of interest, he clarified during a recent media session that he envisions approximately seven more years behind the wheel in the sport’s top division, putting his potential retirement around the age of 40.
The 33-year-old driver spoke about his future in racing and drew a clear distinction between his own plans and those of peers who have competed well into their 40s, such as Kyle Busch and Denny Hamlin. Larson expressed a realistic outlook on how many seasons remain for him at the elite level.
Yeah. That’s definitely a tough question to ask because I think that thought and idea probably changes every year, or probably even less than every year. Every time I might think about it in my head, it might change. But, I think for me, I’m 33 right now. I think it’s realistic to see me race in Cup until I’m 40.
Kyle Larson said via The Podium Finish’s “Hot Seat” to talk with Rob Tiongson.
Larson’s remarks reflect an awareness that personal and professional priorities can shift over time. He acknowledged the challenge of pinning down an exact year for his retirement, emphasizing that his perspective may evolve as circumstances change.
Family Will Shape Larson’s Racing Timeline
The Hendrick Motorsports driver signaled that his family will play a significant role in determining when he steps away from full-time competition. In the next seven years, his oldest child, Owen, will near adulthood, while his younger children, Audrey and Cooper, will be approaching their teenage years. These changing dynamics, he explained, could influence his ultimate decision about continuing to race or pursuing new endeavors outside of NASCAR.
That’s almost seven years from now. Owen will be going close to 18 years old by that point. And uh yeah, Audrey would be about 14 and Cooper would be, you know, about 10, which would be Owen’s age right now. So, life will look a lot different at that point. It probably comes down to really what they’re into and all that. But I really enjoy what I’m doing right now and I just don’t know if that changes when I’m 40.
Kyle Larson added.
Larson noted that his passion for racing remains strong, but as time progresses and his children grow older, the pull to be present for them and involved in their lives may sway his perspective on retirement. This family-focused approach means the final call will rest not only on his career ambitions or results but also on his children’s needs and interests as they mature.
No Clear Advantage for Champion Larson at Phoenix Finale
As the NASCAR Cup Series championship approaches its climax in Phoenix, former driver Kevin Harvick discussed whether Larson’s past title gives him an edge over his rivals in the championship-four showdown. On the Happy Hour podcast, Harvick argued that despite Larson being the only former champion in the final, the week will challenge every contender equally due to the demands and distractions surrounding the event.
I don’t think so. There’s a lot to navigate as far as the week and the weekend and things that are going to be annoying. You’re going to have more people around you. …You got to have a plan if you’re going to do it well. If you just go in there and wing it, I don’t think you’re going to get the most out of it. I think you got to have a structured plan.
Kevin Harvick said.
Harvick highlighted that a structured approach is essential for success at such a pressure-filled event, emphasizing that neither experience nor past achievements alone will guarantee a smoother path or victory. Each driver, including Kyle Larson, must manage added stress and a break from their usual routines.
The Demands and Distractions Facing HMS Drivers
Kevin Harvick further underscored the unique pressures facing Hendrick Motorsports, noting that having two drivers, William Byron and Kyle Larson, competing in the final can stretch resources and support throughout the weekend. Harvick suggested that while the team excels at supporting its drivers, the weekend’s irregularities pose a significant challenge.
When you look a the Hendrick organization, I think that they’re going to keep [William] Byron in line and help him manage his time because that’s what they do as a company anyway. I think the pressure of the weekend is high. But I think the biggest thing in navigating the weekend is all the things that are not in your normal routine.
Kevin Harvick added.
Harvick’s observations reflect the atmosphere surrounding the championship race, where the usual patterns and preparations are upended, further intensifying the competition. The operation and atmosphere at Hendrick Motorsports will be closely watched as both Byron and Larson strive for victory against competitors from Joe Gibbs Racing and other teams.
What Comes Next for Kyle Larson and the NASCAR Cup Series
As the final race of the season in Phoenix approaches, all eyes are on Kyle Larson’s pursuit of a second championship title, with his prospective Kyle Larson retirement plans an ongoing point of speculation. Larson will contend with formidable opponents, including his Hendrick Motorsports teammate William Byron and Joe Gibbs Racing drivers Denny Hamlin and Chase Briscoe. The championship showdown not only caps off a thrilling season but also provides a glimpse into how Larson manages the intertwined demands of career ambitions and family responsibilities.
The choices Kyle Larson makes over the next several years will help define the latter chapters of his racing career. His openness about considering family and his own interests demonstrates a shift in how top NASCAR drivers approach longevity in the sport. As the competition intensifies and his children grow older, the racing world will watch closely to see if Larson extends his run in the series or transitions to new opportunities off the track.
