Kyle Larson Opens Up on His Biggest NASCAR Frustration: “People Think I’m Just Here for the Money”
Kyle Larson, one of NASCAR’s most versatile and talented drivers, has spoken candidly about one of the biggest misconceptions surrounding his career — the idea that he races in NASCAR purely for the money. Despite being a Cup Series Champion and a driver widely regarded as one of the best all-around racers in the world, Larson continues to battle stereotypes about his motivations and commitment to stock-car racing.
The Hendrick Motorsports driver, who pilots the No. 5 Chevrolet, is well-known for his love of racing in multiple disciplines. Beyond NASCAR, Larson competes in dirt track and sprint car events, often running as many as 80 races a year. This reputation as a “wheelman” — someone who can drive anything, anywhere — has made him one of motorsport’s most respected figures. However, that same passion for diverse racing has fueled speculation that he would rather compete elsewhere, particularly on dirt.
Speaking recently, Larson pushed back against that assumption, making it clear that his motivation is rooted in passion, not profit. “I don’t really know why everybody assumes that I wanted to leave NASCAR,” Larson said. “That’s always been something that’s bugged me throughout my whole career — that people just assume I’m here for the money. That’s not the case at all.”
Larson’s comments come amid continued discussion about his extensive racing commitments outside NASCAR, including co-owning the Kubota High Limit Racing sprint car series. Even legends like Tony Stewart have suggested that, if money were the same, Larson might spend all his time racing sprint cars. But Larson quickly dismissed that notion, insisting that his presence in NASCAR is entirely by choice.
“I would not be here if I didn’t want to be in NASCAR,” he explained. “I love the sport and everything it offers. Sure, it provides a great living, but I love what I’m doing. If I wanted to race my cars full-time, I would have done that a long time ago.”
Larson’s words hold weight, especially given his history. In 2020, following his suspension from NASCAR, he spent much of the season racing on dirt tracks across the country, winning countless events and reaffirming his natural skill. That period proved he could thrive outside the Cup Series — but instead of staying away, Larson worked hard to return.
When he rejoined NASCAR in 2021 with Hendrick Motorsports, he dominated, winning 10 races and capturing the Cup Series Championship in his first year back. That success was not the mark of someone racing for money; it was the sign of a driver deeply passionate about competing — and winning — at the sport’s highest level.
Asked what continues to drive him, Larson’s response was simple and heartfelt: “I just like doing it. If I wasn’t having fun, I’d be gone. I wouldn’t have tried to come back in 2020. I love racing — some people just love racing.”
That raw dedication has translated into consistent success since his return. Larson has become a regular Championship 4 contender, proving that his skills and motivation remain unmatched. He embraces the balance between NASCAR and dirt racing, explaining that it keeps him sharp and fulfilled. “For me, I get to compete in NASCAR, and I love doing that. I also get to race in 30 to 40 different events each year. It’s a great balance,” he said.
His passion was on full display during the ambitious “Hendrick 1100” challenge — attempting both the Indianapolis 500 and the Coca-Cola 600 on the same day. Though weather issues disrupted his plans, the effort symbolized his hunger to take on the biggest challenges in motorsport.
Ultimately, Larson believes NASCAR provides a unique platform to showcase his abilities at the highest level. “I get to compete in a lot of the big races that mean a lot to me — and to the sport,” he summarized. “Every big race in NASCAR, I get to be part of. I get to fight for a championship every year with the best team. Why would I ever give that up?”
As the 2025 season nears its conclusion, Larson is again in championship contention — and he believes this might be his best shot yet in the Next Gen era. “I think finally we’ve gotten our short-track package better,” Larson explained. His dominant run at Bristol, where he led 411 of 500 laps and swept all stages, proved that Hendrick Motorsports had made significant progress.
He added, “We were super strong at Gateway and really good at New Hampshire, and Phoenix is somewhat similar to those places. So, I think we’ll have a better opportunity to win the championship than we’ve ever had in the Next Gen era.”
That confidence isn’t arrogance — it’s experience. The same determination that helped Larson climb back into NASCAR after 2020 continues to fuel his pursuit of another title. For a driver often misunderstood, his words now make it crystal clear: Kyle Larson isn’t here for fame or fortune. He’s here because he loves to race — and winning in NASCAR remains the purest expression of that passion.
