Kyle Larson, a cornerstone of consistency in the NASCAR Cup Series, has candidly described his second championship as an outcome he never truly saw coming. After earning his first title in 2021 during an extraordinary debut with Hendrick Motorsports, Larson’s path to a second championship in 2025 unfolded along a much different—and less predictable—journey, highlighting his resilience as he achieved another milestone in Kyle Larson NASCAR championships.
A Dominant Debut Sets the Standard
When Larson joined Hendrick Motorsports in 2021, he delivered one of the most commanding performances in recent NASCAR history. That season, he became the first driver since Jimmie Johnson in 2007 to clinch a double-digit win count, racking up 10 victories, 18 stage wins, and notching 20 finishes inside the top five. With an impressive tally of 26 top-tens and 2,581 laps led, he finished the year with an average result of 9.1, cementing his arrival among the sport’s elite.
2025: Facing Doubts and Setbacks
Entering the 2025 season, Larson found himself in unfamiliar territory. Rather than being the outright favorite, he was overshadowed by drivers like Denny Hamlin, as fans and competitors alike sensed momentum shifting elsewhere. Larson’s attempt to double up with the Indianapolis 500 and the Coca-Cola 600 on the same day proved challenging and ultimately disappointing, leaving him with a lingering sense of frustration and the need to rediscover his form.
During a difficult midseason period, Larson’s rhythm and confidence were severely tested as he looked to rebound from setbacks and prove he could still fight for the championship.
Rediscovering Momentum in the Playoffs
As the series advanced toward the high-stakes playoff stretch, Larson managed to regain focus and momentum at precisely the right time. The turnaround culminated at Phoenix Raceway, where a well-timed late caution set the stage for a dramatic finish. Larson capitalized on the opportunity, outperforming Denny Hamlin and clinching his second Cup Series championship.
“Second one was cool just because it was a bit unexpected. The way our race was playing out, we still had a great year, but like not as dominant when we won the first time.”
— Kyle Larson, NASCAR Cup Series Driver
Reflecting on a Career of Steady Climb and Achievements
Looking back, Larson continues to process the reality of becoming a two-time champion, especially given the struggles and doubts of his earlier years with Chip Ganassi Racing. Between 2014 and 2020, although his talent was evident through six wins and a best points finish of sixth in 2019, Larson never truly considered himself a likely title contender.
“I’m a two-time NASCAR champion because… like never really never really thought of winning a championship back when I was racing for Ganassi or anything like that, so I never thought that that was on the table. Yeah, it’s definitely sick.”
— Kyle Larson, NASCAR Cup Series Driver
The Role of a Strong Team and Support Network
Larson’s transition to Hendrick Motorsports in 2021 marked a turning point, offering the support and resources he needed to elevate his career. Alongside key team members and family, including moments like laps around the Tulsa Expo Raceway, Larson has drawn on a rich support system that helped him return to the sport’s pinnacle.
What the Future Holds for Larson and NASCAR
With his second championship now a reality, Kyle Larson stands as a symbol of persistence and adaptability in NASCAR. His journey underscores the unpredictable nature of racing and the importance of perseverance, ensuring that his legacy within the NASCAR Cup Series and his impact on the sport remain significant as the next season approaches. The lessons drawn from both his dominant and hard-fought title runs will continue to inspire both fans and future drivers.
Talkin’ Tulsa with the Larson crew!@KyleLarsonRacin, Owen, and Audrey join @clintonboyles98 for a lap around the Tulsa Expo Raceway — covering everything from sibling rivalries to chasing a Golden Driller. 😄🏁#TulsaShootout | #ChiliBowl pic.twitter.com/uHftzeRces
— FloRacing (@FloRacing) January 3, 2026
