Kyle Larson, competing in Sunday’s Autotrader 400 at Echopark Speedway, took full responsibility after colliding with Shane van Gisbergen during Stage 2, dramatically impacting the Shane van Gisbergen wreck Atlanta. The crash occurred as both drivers battled for position, ultimately forcing Larson to retire from the race while van Gisbergen rejoined after repairs.
With only one lap remaining in Stage 2, Larson ran in third place before making a late move to block the inside lane. Shane van Gisbergen had already advanced, and as Larson swerved, he cut directly into van Gisbergen’s path. Their cars made contact, resulting in Larson’s vehicle rolling over twice and coming to rest against the outside barrier. Meanwhile, van Gisbergen, piloting the No.97 Chevy, crossed the infield grass but was able to continue after his team addressed the damage.
The incident forced the end of the day for Larson’s No.5 team, who attempted to get the car back into the race but were unsuccessful. Following the wreck, Larson spoke candidly about his role, stating,
“Yeah, just all my fault obviously. I just, in my brain, I knew the 45 had been inside of me and then you know, I got clear of him and I wanted to just cut distance and I guess the 97 was just out of my corner mirror. So yeah. I hung a left and then ran right into him.”
— Kyle Larson, Driver
He further explained,
“I just didn’t realise that the 97 had ever gotten inside the 45, so just all my fault, hate it. Just need to listen more I guess, and not just react off what I feel sometimes,”
he added via X/NASCAR on FOX. — Kyle Larson, Driver
Larson’s mishap marked his first DNF (Did Not Finish) of the 2026 NASCAR Cup Series season. Just a week before, he had finished in 16th spot at the Daytona 500. As the intense atmosphere of the Cup Series continues, Larson now prepares for the upcoming event at Circuit of the Americas, aiming to recover from the setback.
Kyle Larson Looks to the Future with Hendrick Motorsports
In the aftermath of the Atlanta race, attention also turned to Larson’s long-term relationship with Hendrick Motorsports. After achieving multiple Cup Series championships and securing a contract extension until 2031, the Californian driver stated his desire for an enduring partnership. Reflecting on his career, he said,
“I don’t need the contract to know that I’ll hopefully be there for the rest of my life. I don’t ever foresee a reason for me to even want to entertain you, you know, being a part of another group….maybe the lifetime contract will be the next one, but I’m not too worried about it,”
he said. — Kyle Larson, Driver
Larson began racing for Hendrick Motorsports in 2021, capturing the Cup title that season and breaking the streak of dominance held by Team Penske. In 2025, despite not claiming victory in the playoffs, he consistently finished inside the top five—including near-wins at both Las Vegas and the Charlotte Roval. Larson’s resume now boasts 26 Cup Series wins as he remains a major force in the Cup Series for HMS.
What Lies Ahead for Larson and the Cup Series
The recent event at Echopark Speedway affects both Larson and Shane van Gisbergen as they prepare for the next rounds of the season. The Shane van Gisbergen wreck Atlanta remains a notable incident in the 2026 schedule, demonstrating the split-second decisions and risks drivers face while vying for top positions in NASCAR. As Larson targets a rebound at Circuit of the Americas and looks ahead in his partnership with Hendrick Motorsports, the ongoing storylines and rivalries promise continued intensity throughout the Cup Series. With close calls, rapid changes, and renowned drivers such as Shane van Gisbergen, Kyle Larson, and the teams of Team Penske and HMS in the mix, fans can anticipate more high-stakes competition as the season unfolds.
"All my fault, obviously."- Kyle Larson pic.twitter.com/bc7e3SYJUe
— FOX: NASCAR (@NASCARONFOX) February 22, 2026
