Kyle Larson gave a moving Kyle Larson championship speech at the Phoenix Raceway following his second NASCAR title, recognizing Denny Hamlin for his resilience and drive. Competing at the 1-mile Arizona track on Sunday, Larson secured the victory after defending against a late-race push from Hamlin, who had been leading most of the event.
Phoenix Raceway witnessed intense racing action as Hamlin, who was looking for his first career championship, appeared poised for victory until a caution toward the end changed the race’s course. Despite the disappointment, Hamlin’s determination throughout the season was apparent, and Larson made a point to address him directly on the championship stage.
Larson Commends Hamlin’s Dedication and Standard
As he spoke from the podium, Larson offered praise and recognition for his competitor, highlighting Hamlin’s relentless work ethic and influence within the sport.
“Obviously, I got to have a special shout out to Denny,”
Kyle Larson, NASCAR champion.
“Nobody in this sport works harder or expects more out of themselves. Year after year he raises the bar and pushes his competitors to be better.”
– Kyle Larson, NASCAR champion.
“He holds himself to a true championship standard and I think everyone in this room has a ton of respect for that.”
– Kyle Larson, NASCAR champion.
Hamlin Remains Reserved about Future Season
After a season marked by fierce competition and high expectations, Denny Hamlin has not yet announced his plans for the 2026 racing season. His performance throughout the championship event at Phoenix Raceway demonstrated his ongoing commitment to excellence, while Larson’s speech emphasized the respect shared among NASCAR’s top drivers.
The 2025 NASCAR Championship at Phoenix saw Kyle Larson and Denny Hamlin stand out as central figures, drawing attention from fans and competitors alike. Larson’s tribute during his championship speech affirmed the mutual admiration and competitive spirit that define the sport at its highest level.
