Kyle Larson laments 2023 Cup championship loss to Ryan Blaney, claims he is as ‘bummed as Denny Hamlin’ at Martinsville
Kyle Larson finished as the championship runner up with his P3 at Phoenix.
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Denny Hamlin and Kyle Larson (Via IMAGO)
Hendrick Motorsports’ Kyle Larson was expected to cruise to the Championship victory at Phoenix on Sunday by many. He was one of the most consistent drivers in the playoffs, had the experience advantage, had a strong car from HMS, and, by securing the Championship-4 spot by winning at Vegas, had the most time to prepare.
But all these weren’t enough to match Ryan Blaney, who was in prime clutch form. The team Penske racing driver held Kyle Larson behind him in the final laps of the race to finish second and secure his maiden title. Blaney’s finish was more impressive because he was rigorously fighting
While talking about the disappointing end to his race, he admitted that he gave everything in the final laps, and despite his team putting him in a good position, the push wasn’t enough. Larson said that he is feeling as bummed as his friend and JGR driver Denny Hamlin felt when he was knocked out of the playoff the week before at Martinsville.
I know it didn’t look maybe like it that last run. That was all I had. Our team did a really good job of putting us in that spot. I am still obviously extremely bummed, as I’m sure Denny [Hamlin] was last week. Even though I didn’t feel like I had the fast car, I had an opportunity. It’s a bummer when you don’t win.Larson said, as reported by RACER.
Kyle Larson is eager to come back strong Next-Season
Larson, despite being disappointed with the result, isn’t giving up and is determined to bounce back next season. He admitted that he knows where things went wrong and is ready to get back on track to work on them and once again fight for the title.
At the same point, I’m probably coming up this close, probably more eager for the following season already. I know where I need to improve and I’m just ready to get back on the track and work on all that. Yeah, bummed but also eager to get into the offseason, get working and ready for next year.
Larson capped off another impressive season with HMS. Since making his debut with them in 2021, he has won 17 races and has the worst championship finish of P7. He also has massive success in sprint races, and in 2024, he has more responsibility on his shoulders with the expansion of High Limit racing. For a champion driver like him, it’s another opportunity to shine.
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Justin P Joy
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