Hendrick Motorsports has announced a significant move before the 2026 NASCAR season, revealing that a long-term Hendrick Motorsports contract extension was reached with 2025 Cup Series champion Kyle Larson. The new deal will keep Larson at the organization through the 2031 season, sustaining continuity as the powerhouse team prepares for the future.
Larson, a standout driver with a celebrated Cup Series track record, also sees his championship-winning crew chief Cliff Daniels sign a multi-year extension. These agreements were made public via an official team press release, confirming that Hendrick Motorsports is determined to maintain their successful core and aim for further championships.
Larson and Hendrix Extend Their Championship Collaboration
Kyle Larson secured his new five-year contract after an impressive season, highlighted by last year’s dramatic Cup Series victory and his prior 2021 championship. His success at this level is remarkable, tallying 32 points-paying wins and establishing himself as a perennial favorite entering every race. Hendrick Motorsports’ decision to extend his contract signals confidence in his ability to deliver more victories and titles for the team.
Cliff Daniels, who has been an integral part of both of Larson’s championship-winning campaigns, will remain on Larson’s pit box thanks to his own renewed deal. The continued partnership between Larson and Daniels strengthens the team’s prospects, especially since their collaboration has proven to be a winning formula for consistent high performance on the track.
“I’m incredibly grateful to continue my career with Hendrick Motorsports and HendrickCars.com,”
Kyle Larson said in the press release.
“This team, this organization and this family have given me everything I need to compete at the highest level. We’ve accomplished a lot together, but I truly believe the best is still ahead. I’m grateful to Mr. Hendrick and JB for believing in me, and I’m excited to keep chasing wins and championships with Cliff and the 5 team for many more years.”
– Kyle Larson, 2025 Cup Series Champion
Rick Hendrick Praises Drivers and Leadership
Rick Hendrick, the owner of Hendrick Motorsports as well as chairman and CEO of the Hendrick Automotive Group, emphasized the importance of people and leadership within the organization. His remarks point to the strategic value of Larson and Daniels for the team’s ongoing success.
“When you look at what it takes to succeed at the highest level year after year, it starts with people,”
said Rick Hendrick, owner of Hendrick Motorsports and chairman and CEO of Hendrick Automotive Group.
“Kyle is one of the most complete drivers in our sport. His talent, work ethic and instincts give us a chance to win every time we race.”
“Cliff is a true servant leader who brings out the best in everyone around him and sets the standard for how we go to the track. Having HendrickCars.com alongside this group continues to create real, measurable value for our automotive business. Together, it’s a combination that will keep winning races and competing for championships for a long time.”
– Rick Hendrick, Owner & Chairman
Continued Success Anticipated for the Cup Series Season
With Hendrick Motorsports maintaining their leadership lineup and securing star driver Kyle Larson through 2031, the team positions itself as a top contender for future NASCAR Cup Series championships. Their consistent performance and strategic stability inject optimism for fans heading into the new season. The organization’s decision underscores the importance of maintaining synergy between driver and crew chief in pursuit of further success on racing’s biggest stages.
This move ensures Hendrick Motorsports remains in the spotlight as one of the sport’s most formidable forces and makes Larson’s pursuit of more wins and titles a storyline to watch in the years ahead.
