As is typical, Kyle Larson’s successful exploits in the NASCAR Cup were just part of his 2023 motorsport endeavours, which included winning appearances in the Xfinity and Truck Series. He also won numerous sprint car races, including in a series he owns – High Limit Sprint Car Racing – and announced his entry into the 2024 Indianapolis 500.
Larson shone brightest in Cup with four wins for Chevrolet team Hendrick Motorsports, including two important playoff victories at Darlington and Las Vegas, and headed the series for laps led. As the only previous champion to advance to the Championship 4 this year, he came up just short of Ryan Blaney for the title.
Larson won his first NASCAR Cup title just two years ago but when it came to this season’s championship battle, the 31-year-old was the veteran. Not only were William Byron, Christopher Bell and Ryan Blaney all seeking their first series title, but Byron and Blaney were each getting their first opportunity to compete for a championship.
Larson was one of the few drivers able to keep up this season with his Hendrick Motorsports team-mate Byron, the year’s most consistent driver, but lost out in his head-to-head battle with Blaney in the crucial final laps at Phoenix.
Source: Autosport