Kyle Larson secured his second NASCAR championship at Phoenix last Sunday, attributing much of his drive and sportsmanship to the example set by veteran competitor Denny Hamlin. Larson’s triumph in the Championship 4 highlighted both fierce competition and mutual respect, placing the focus keyword, “Kyle Larson championship respect,” at the core of the season finale.
Larson Acknowledges Hamlin’s Impact on and off the Track
After emerging victorious, Larson openly expressed admiration for Denny Hamlin, who has been a dominant force in NASCAR for over twenty years. Despite experiencing a crushing disappointment—possibly his last real opportunity to capture a title—Hamlin approached Larson after the race, offering his congratulations and demonstrating professionalism in defeat.
Larson shared that he found Hamlin’s reaction gracious and inspiring, remarking that he himself might not have handled a similar loss with as much sportsmanship. He voiced his hope that Hamlin will have another chance at achieving the championship win he has long pursued.
“Championship or not, I think we all know he’s a champion driver and a champion of our sport,”
said Larson in an interview with NASCAR.
“I hope he can someday feel the feeling of accomplishing a championship. It is something he has worked so hard for.”
– Kyle Larson, Driver
Larson made a point to underscore Hamlin’s significance in the sport, predicting Hall of Fame recognition for the Joe Gibbs Racing driver regardless of future championship outcomes.
Rivalry That Drives Excellence
Throughout the 2025 season, Larson and Hamlin finished in first and second place together eight times, with Hamlin securing victory in the majority of those showdowns. Larson noted that these intense battles have contributed to his own growth, both as a competitor and as a race car driver. He gave credit to Hamlin’s relentless drive as a decisive factor in raising his own performance.
“We’ve definitely had our fair share of good battles, especially over the past five years or so,”
Larson continued.
“But, we’ve had our run-ins, too. But still, I always love competing with him. He’s the ultimate competitor on the racetrack and in any sport in which he’s involved. So, yeah, he’s definitely somebody who can push any competitor to the next level and somebody who’s definitely made me a better race car driver. So, I appreciate that.”
– Kyle Larson, Driver
Respect and Friendship Beyond Competition
The relationship between Larson and Hamlin stands as a blueprint for emerging NASCAR rivals. Despite their fierce duels at high speeds, the two drivers maintain a respectful friendship off the track. This foundation of mutual regard was apparent even as Larson celebrated his own victory—he admitted to feeling a sense of empathy and sadness for Hamlin amidst his own elation.
As the season concludes, Larson’s recognition of Hamlin’s contributions and his hope for Hamlin’s future opportunities highlight a sportsmanship that echoes beyond individual races and results. Their ongoing rivalry not only shapes their personal careers but also elevates the standards of competition and respect in NASCAR for current and future generations.
