Kyle Larson, the 2021 NASCAR Cup Series champion, is not going anywhere any time soon. On Friday, Hendrick Motorsports announced a contract extension with the driver of their No. 5 car.
The new extension ensures that Larson will pilot a Hendrick Motorsports Chevrolet through the end of the 2026 season.
Larson says competing for wins and championships with Hendrick Motorsports is a dream come true.
“I can’t explain how much this opportunity means,” Larson said. “The chance to compete for the top team and best sponsors in racing is something every driver dreams about. I’m humbled to have incredible people in my corner and amazing support from so many fans. Thanks to everyone at Hendrick Motorsports and Hendrick Automotive Group for believing in me, Cliff and our team. Even though we’ve done some great things so far, I truly believe our best is ahead of us.”
Additionally, HendrickCars.com will continue as Larson’s anchor partner for 35-races per season going forward.
For Rick Hendrick, re-signing Larson was a no-brainer.
“When Kyle joined our team, the expectations were sky high from both inside and outside the organization. To say he’s exceeded them would be an understatement,” said Hendrick, owner of Hendrick Motorsports and chairman and CEO of Hendrick Automotive Group in a press release. “Not only has Kyle proven himself as a champion driver, he’s performed at a championship level outside of the race car. We’re proud to continue our relationship and to see him represent our team and our brands in such positive ways. The years to come are very bright.”
Larson, 30, has done a lot in a very short time at Hendrick Motorsports. In his first campaign with the team — 2021 — Larson scored 10 victories on his path to his first-career NASCAR Cup Series championship.
This season, Larson has continued to show why he is one of the top talents in the sport, as he has scored two wins (second-most in the series), 10 top-fives and 14 top-10s through the opening 28 races of the year.
Larson sits eighth in the NASCAR Cup Series Playoff Standings. The top-12 drivers following Saturday night’s event at Bristol Motor Speedway will advance to the next round of the Playoffs.
