Kyle Larson delivered his NASCAR championship speech at the 2025 NASCAR Awards, taking the moment to honor his fierce rival Denny Hamlin and highlight their competitive journey. Larson’s words demonstrated deep respect for Hamlin’s enduring commitment to the sport, adding an emotional layer to his own championship recognition and underscoring the significance of the Kyle Larson NASCAR championship speech for fans and fellow drivers.
Larson Recognizes Hamlin’s Dedication During Championship Celebration
At the 2025 NASCAR Awards, Kyle Larson made a point to mention Denny Hamlin, acknowledging him as one of his most challenging adversaries throughout the season. Larson, who clinched his second NASCAR Cup Series championship, emphasized Hamlin’s unwavering dedication and drive, even as Hamlin endured disappointment after a dramatic finish in the Phoenix finale. Although Larson’s No. 5 Hendrick Motorsports car did not lead a single lap in the decisive race, a bold pit strategy late in the contest left Hamlin—representing Joe Gibbs Racing—without a victory, despite having the fastest car for most of the event.
In his speech, the 32-time Cup race winner made it a point to thank his family, team, and sponsors. He then moved on to spotlight Hamlin’s consistent excellence across his two-decade career:
“Obviously, I got to give a special shout-out to Denny. Nobody in the sport works harder or expects more of themselves. Year after year, he raises the bar and pushes his competitors to be better. 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 Cup Series champion
The Championship Hurt for Hamlin
Larson’s latest achievement secured the fifteenth Cup Series championship for Hendrick Motorsports, led by Rick Hendrick. For Hamlin, however, the finale meant heartbreak. The veteran driver, now in the twilight of his career, was left agonizingly close to a milestone that remains elusive—a Cup Series title—after a turn of fate took his shot away in Arizona. Larson later reflected that the 2025 championship finale was Hamlin’s closest brush yet with Cup Series triumph.
Larson Shares Empathy for Hamlin’s Loss
After the race in Phoenix, Arizona, Larson spoke to the media about his feelings for Hamlin’s near-miss at the championship. The 33-year-old champion displayed genuine empathy for his fellow driver, underscoring the intensity of competition and their personal bond beyond rivalry:
“Definitely have a lot of empathy for him…It’s great to celebrate and all that, but it does feel a little awkward because he has put so much time and energy, has been so close to winning so many championships. This is as close as he’s ever been. Sure he’s a competitor, but he is a friend. I was going to be happy for him to win.” – Kyle Larson, NASCAR Cup Series champion
“That’s competition. That’s the format. It’s just weird, you know? But yeah, I still hope someday he can get to feel what it’s like.” – Kyle Larson, NASCAR Cup Series champion
Season Performances Highlight Intense Rivalry
Looking at the broader 2025 season, Kyle Larson collected three wins and fifteen top-five finishes from thirty-six races in NASCAR’s top division. Meanwhile, Denny Hamlin, representing Joe Gibbs Racing, scored six wins and fourteen top-fives—amplifying the competitive edge between them throughout the campaign. Their performances kept both drivers at the forefront, driving their teams and sponsors toward consistent top-tier results.
The Impact of Larson’s Tribute on NASCAR
Kyle Larson’s championship speech went beyond the typical acknowledgment of team members and partners, shining a spotlight on what relentless competition and mutual respect mean in NASCAR’s highest tier. By openly recognizing Hamlin’s contributions and struggle, Larson set a precedent for sportsmanship and camaraderie at the highest level. As both drivers continue their careers, the moments they share—on and off the track—will fuel headlines and inspire future competitors across the NASCAR landscape.
