Kyle Larson NASCAR Cup champion moments at the 2025 finale in Phoenix took an unexpected twist as his family joined him on the podium, only for the celebration to be briefly sidelined by a bubblegum mishap involving his daughter Audrey. The joyous chaos unfolded as the Larson family marked Kyle’s second Cup Series title victory, highlighting the lighter side of a high-stakes racing triumph.
Surprise Victory Sparks Celebrations and Unexpected Mishap
Kyle Larson entered the Phoenix weekend as the only driver to qualify for the championship four by amassing enough points, with many experts favoring Denny Hamlin to secure the win after his pole position and dominant 208 laps led. However, the race shifted dramatically following a late caution; despite not leading a single lap, Larson’s third-place finish sealed the title for the No. 5 driver, marking his second Cup Series win.
As Kyle Larson’s family erupted in celebration, Katelyn Larson, his wife, turned to Instagram to share candid glimpses from their emotional weekend, including the aftermath of the title-clinching race. Among the images, a particular story drew attention after Katelyn revealed how celebrations led to an unusual incident.
“Zoom in… you’ll see a huge piece of bubblegum stuck in her hair!”
The bubblegum disaster, as described by Katelyn, involved their daughter Audrey, adding a touch of humor to what was otherwise an intensely emotional and career-defining weekend for the Larson family and Hendrick Motorsports.
Larson’s Tribute to Family in Championship Speech
Since his Cup Series debut in 2013, Kyle Larson has relied on the steady support of his wife, Katelyn, and their family. During his 2025 championship victory speech, Larson was quick to acknowledge this, beginning his remarks with deep gratitude for those who stood by him throughout the ups and downs of the racing season.
“What a year. Standing up here tonight, it really hits me how hard this is to do and how many people it takes to make it happen. I’m beyond grateful to be here surrounded by the people who made this season what it is.” (0:03 onwards)
“I want to start with my family. Katelyn thank you for being there through it all through all of it. For the patience, the understanding, the strength you show every single week. I know the schedule isn’t easy, the travel, the time away, the ups and downs, but you’ve stood by me through all of it, and I’m so grateful for that.”
The emotional intensity of his words underscored the sacrifices and resilience required behind the scenes—especially from Katelyn, as she managed the family’s presence at trackside and supported Kyle through his demanding schedule.
Record-Breaking Season for Larson and Hendrick Motorsports
The 2025 season proved a significant milestone for Kyle Larson and his organization, Hendrick Motorsports. Larson secured three race victories, amassed 15 top-five finishes, and logged 22 top-ten results, each performance propelling him closer to championship glory. This remarkable consistency also contributed to Hendrick Motorsports earning its 15th NASCAR Cup Series title, marking another chapter in the team’s storied history.
Key figures such as Denny Hamlin, who entered the Phoenix race as a favorite, amplified the drama, but ultimately could not overcome the unpredictable chain of events that worked in Larson’s favor. The celebrations, both jubilant and chaotic, brought fans a glimpse behind the curtain—where victory is sometimes marked by personal moments as memorable as championship trophies.
With this latest title, Kyle Larson NASCAR Cup champion status is solidified, and his family’s lighthearted bubblegum mishap will undoubtedly live on as a cherished anecdote within the broader narrative of his racing career. As attention now shifts toward the future, all eyes will be on how Larson and his team build upon this extraordinary season.
