Kyle Larson was honored with the Goodyear Gold Car award in a special ceremony on Friday, January 23, at the Hendrick Motorsports facility in Concord, North Carolina, recognizing his 2025 NASCAR Cup Series championship. The event highlighted the partnership between Goodyear and the racing team, emphasizing the teamwork behind Larson’s victory and adding another highlight to the story of Kyle Larson Goodyear Gold Car achievements.
Significance of the Goodyear Gold Car Award
The Goodyear Gold Car has been a symbol of NASCAR Cup Series supremacy since 1985, given annually to the champion driver. This year marked the first time the award presentation was held inside the winning team’s shop, underlining the essential contributions of team members and reflecting the collaborative spirit needed for championship success. The award is widely cherished by recipients, who consider it a standout among racing honors.
The unique trophy is a 1/12-scale model of Larson’s No. 5 HendrickCars.com Chevrolet Camaro, finished in 24-karat gold. Crafted by model builder Michael Dunlap, each Gold Car is an exact replica, including exterior details, chassis elements, and interior features—down to accurate hood pins, lug nuts, and even the placement of every dashboard switch. This year’s award is the second for Larson, who previously took home the honor after his 2021 Cup Series championship.
Goodyear and Hendrick Motorsports’ Enduring Partnership
The ceremony brought together top figures in motorsports, with representation from Goodyear, Hendrick Motorsports, Goodyear Racing, and NASCAR leadership, as well as many of the dedicated team members responsible for the 2025 season’s success. Mark Stewart, Goodyear CEO and President, remarked on the legacy of the partnership between Hendrick Motorsports and Goodyear, and celebrated the ongoing achievements shared between the organizations.
“We’re honored to present Kyle Larson with the Goodyear Gold Car in the shop where the actual championship car was born,”
Mark Stewart, CEO and President.
“Hendrick Motorsports and Goodyear have always been a winning combination in NASCAR and the team remains a historic partner for us, having won 15 championships on Goodyear tires, and playing a pivotal role in milestone wins throughout our NASCAR history.”
Mark Stewart, CEO and President.
Team Effort Shines in Larson’s Championship
Kyle Larson expressed his appreciation for the unique trophy and for the chance to share the moment with his team. He noted the award’s special status within NASCAR and its powerful symbolism for hard-fought championships.
“Receiving the Goodyear Gold Car is incredibly special,”
Kyle Larson.
“It’s such a unique trophy in our sport, and it represents everything it takes to win a NASCAR Cup Series championship. To be able to accept it on the Hendrick Motorsports campus, in front of the men and women that work so hard, makes it even more meaningful. This championship was even more meaningful because it was a full team effort.”
Kyle Larson.
What the Goodyear Gold Car Award Means for NASCAR
The Goodyear Gold Car award presentation inside Hendrick Motorsports’ shop not only commemorates Kyle Larson’s championship, but also celebrates the shared dedication and teamwork essential to triumph in the NASCAR Cup Series. As Goodyear and Hendrick Motorsports continue to build on their historic relationship, the Gold Car remains an enduring symbol of excellence and unity within the sport. The event stands as a testament to the hard work of every individual involved in motorsports success, promising more memorable moments in seasons to come.
