Kyle Larson Reflects on the Pain of Losing the 2023 NASCAR Cup Title and His Determination to Redeem Himself in 2025
As the NASCAR Cup Series championship race approaches, Kyle Larson finds himself once again in a position that every driver dreams of — among the elite four contenders who will battle it out for the title at Phoenix Raceway on November 2. After a commanding performance at Martinsville, the Hendrick Motorsports star secured his place in the Championship 4, marking his second appearance in the title showdown during the Next Gen car era. But for Larson, this return isn’t just about redemption — it’s a chance to correct the mistakes and heartbreak that haunted him after narrowly missing out on the championship crown in 2023.
Back in 2023, Larson came agonizingly close to his second Cup Series title, finishing runner-up to Team Penske’s Ryan Blaney at Phoenix. The loss left a deep mark on the 2021 champion, who admitted that the memory of watching another driver take the checkered flag right in front of him was both painful and humbling. Reflecting on that emotional moment, Larson shared during a recent press conference, “Although I was happy to make it to the Final 4, I was definitely sad not to win. We finished second that year. Seeing the guy in front of you take the checkered flag and become a champion was a deflating feeling. I’m glad to be back in this position, and hopefully, we can be one spot better than we were last time.”
Those words capture Larson’s mix of gratitude and determination. He understands that being in the Championship 4 is a major achievement in itself, but he is not content with just participation — he’s aiming for the ultimate prize. Yet, Larson also seems to have gained a level of maturity and perspective since that defeat. Instead of dwelling on the loss, he has chosen to view it as a stepping stone, a valuable lesson in perseverance and composure under pressure.
Interestingly, Larson doesn’t believe that his previous experiences as a champion — specifically his 2021 Cup Series triumph — will necessarily give him an advantage this time around. He explained that while the feeling of winning a championship is unforgettable, the circumstances this season are entirely different. “I don’t know. I think they’re kind of both different,” Larson admitted. “In 2021, it was the older car, so the style of racing was different. The track had some prep on the upper half. This time, everything feels new — from the car to the track dynamics.”
The shift from the old generation car to the Next Gen era has indeed changed the way drivers approach races. With different aerodynamics, tire management strategies, and handling characteristics, success now requires a fresh mindset. For Larson, adapting to this evolution has been crucial. His ability to consistently perform at a high level, even amid changing conditions, is a testament to his technical skill and mental toughness.
Larson’s calm and collected attitude also stands out ahead of this year’s championship decider. Unlike some competitors who might feel the immense pressure of the moment, Larson appears at peace. As the only driver in the 2024 Championship 4 lineup who has previously won a Cup Series title, one might assume that experience gives him an edge. However, Larson remains grounded, refusing to rely on past accolades as a measure of future success. “We’ll see,” he said with a humble smile. “Having won before, I am a champion, so if I win another one, great. If I don’t, I’m still on the list. There’s that. But I don’t think it gives you any sort of competitive advantage.”
His humility is refreshing in a sport often driven by ego and bravado. Larson recognizes that his fellow contenders — all of whom are chasing their first championship — bring immense talent and hunger to the track. In his view, every driver lining up at Phoenix has earned their spot through grit and hard work, and the title will go to whoever executes the best race on the day.
As the big day draws near, Larson’s focus remains unshakable. He has tasted the highs of victory and the sting of defeat, and both have shaped him into the composed, resilient competitor he is today. While his desire to reclaim the championship is stronger than ever, he has also learned that true greatness lies in consistency, perspective, and passion for the sport.
“I want to be a champion again more than anything,” Larson confessed. “But if I don’t win, I know all won’t be lost. We’ve come a long way, and I’m proud of how far our team has come.”
For Kyle Larson, the 2025 NASCAR Cup Series finale at Phoenix isn’t just another race — it’s a test of growth, patience, and redemption. And whether or not he crosses the finish line first, one thing is certain: the No. 5 driver’s relentless pursuit of excellence continues to inspire fans and fellow racers alike.
