Kyle Larson ponders how winning the 2023 Cup championship might redefine his NASCAR legacy

If Kyle Larson wins the title this at Phoenix, he will be the 18th different driver to have won multiple titles.

Kyle Larson ponders how winning the 2023 Cup championship might redefine his NASCAR legacy

Jeff Gordon and Kyle Larson (Via IMAGO)

As the Phoenix Championship 4 race approaches, one name stands out as the favorite for the 2023 title—Kyle Larson. The 2021 NASCAR champion has captured the attention of racing fans with his remarkable journey from California’s dirt tracks to the pinnacle of the sport. With his natural talent and relentless drive, the Hendricks Motorsports driver has become a force to be reckoned with in the modern era of NASCAR.

Larson distinguished himself as the Round of 8’s frontrunner, securing a coveted spot in the Championship 4 showdown at Phoenix Raceway. His fourth season win at Las Vegas, where he narrowly outperformed Christopher Bell, proved pivotal in advancing him to the final. In the title race, Larson faces formidable competition from Bell, Ryan Blaney, and William Byron, who share the common quest for their maiden Cup championship.

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During a candid interview with Fox Sports’ Bob Pockrass, the 2021 NASCAR champ humbly contemplated the prospect of a second championship. He admitted, “I don’t know, I never really thought I’d win one,” highlighting the surprise and gratitude he feels for his initial championship win. Larson claimed:

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I haven’t really thought about winning two. I really don’t know, I don’t have an opinion on it.

Larson expressed his desire for more titles but stressed that he hadn’t contemplated the significance of winning a second championship at the present moment. He acknowledged that, while it might hold importance, he currently refrains from forming a definitive opinion. 

Kyle Larson believes it is difficult to match Dale Earnhardt Sr. and Jimmie Johnson’s record

Larson has a pragmatic approach to the championship. He recognizes the complexities of NASCAR racing, where a single race can determine the champion. 

If you win a second one, that is one step closer to 7 or 8. So I think that’s everybody’s goal to surpass them [Dale Earnhardt Sr and Jimmie Johnson]. But this day and age, that would be very difficult. Yeah, I would love to get one step closer.
Kyle Larson and Jimmie Johnson
Kyle Larson and Jimmie Johnson (Credits: Business Insider)

What truly distinguishes Larson is his ability to inspire confidence in his team. His team’s VP, Jeff Gordon, noted that Larson brings a unique combination of talent, aggression, and speed. This has propelled Hendrick Motorsports to greater heights, demonstrating the power of teamwork in NASCAR.

Larson’s impressive statistics for 2023 speak volumes about his capabilities. With four wins, 14 top-five finishes, and 17 top-ten finishes, he has been a dominant force in the current season. Notably, his strong performances on short tracks and a victory at Las Vegas Motor Speedway have positioned him as the frontrunner for the championship.

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