Kyle Larson, now hailed as the 2025 NASCAR champion, delivered Hendrick Motorsports its 15th Cup Series title at Phoenix this November, stunning even those closest to the team. Jeff Gordon, a four-time Cup Series champion and current team vice chairman, acknowledged his awe and disbelief as Larson clinched the win despite his deep faith in the No. 5 crew’s abilities.
The Moment of Triumph and Realization
Gordon’s presence in the pit box for the No. 9 team put him in a unique position to witness the culmination of months of preparation and sacrifice. When Larson crossed the checkered flag, the enormity of the achievement didn’t immediately register for Gordon. It was only as he made his way to Victory Lane that the magnitude of Larson’s victory began to resonate with him, leaving him still processing the historic moment.
Describing his feelings during that high-stakes weekend, Gordon shared,
“Then, when you see them pull that off, that’s what pulls me in – the trust and belief and excitement and nervousness you have for them. I definitely felt that throughout the whole weekend … Then it was more, ‘Holy cow, that just happened.’ And I’d say I’m still a little bit in that mode.”
– Jeff Gordon, Team Vice Chairman
The Unseen Emotion Behind the Championship
Gordon reflected on how the records will only ever show that 2025 marked Hendrick Motorsports’ 15th championship, not the depth of feeling and dedication behind the scenes. The statistics, he noted, will never capture the emotional energy or the extraordinary work put in by Larson, the drivers, and the entire crew.
Gearing Up for Another Challenge in 2026
Even as the team celebrates their landmark accomplishment, Gordon is already setting his sights on another title run in 2026. His competitive mindset drives the organization to continually push boundaries. Gordon remarked,
“I think what our folks are so good at, no matter how good you did last year, they’re working equally or even harder at raising the bar the next year.”
– Jeff Gordon, Team Vice Chairman
Preparation for the new NASCAR season includes integrating a redesigned Chevrolet body, with Gordon and his technical team focused on maximizing its potential. He is eager to witness how this upgrade will shape the next stage of Hendrick Motorsports’ journey, especially with proven leaders like Kyle Larson in the driver’s seat.
Legacy and the Future for Hendrick Motorsports
Kyle Larson’s performance as the 2025 NASCAR champion adds another remarkable chapter to the legacy of Hendrick Motorsports. With leaders such as Jeff Gordon, seasoned crew chiefs, skilled engineers, and dedicated team members striving for continual progress, the pursuit of excellence pushes the team forward. As preparations begin for 2026, all eyes are on Hendrick Motorsports to see if they can capture the same magic once again at Phoenix and reinforce their place in racing history.
