Kyle Larson is among the high drivers within the NASCAR Cup Collection proper now, however change from the Gen-6 to the present Gen-7 race automobile is one thing that he believes put a notable dent in his stats web page.
He earned his 14th win within the Subsequent Gen period on Sunday at Homestead-Miami Speedway, which was additionally the thirtieth of his profession. Solely 29 different drivers have ever reached that milestone, however Larson believes that quantity could possibly be far greater if NASCAR caught with the earlier chassis for a bit longer.
Leveling the taking part in discipline
“I believe if we might nonetheless have the 2021 automobile, I’d have about 50 Cup wins proper now,” mentioned Larson in his winner’s press convention at Homestead. “I believe switching to this automobile has restricted us from profitable.”
It is fairly the assertion, believing that he would have earned round 20 extra victories within the final three years with out the introduction of the present technology of automobile, which has leveled the taking part in discipline to some extent and made issues far nearer throughout the Cup Collection discipline.
However should you take a look at the ultimate season with the previous automobile, Larson’s declare begins to have some advantage. Not solely did he win the 2021 NASCAR Cup Collection championship, however Larson additionally gained ten races and led 2,581 laps — that is greater than 1,000 greater than anybody else. The brand new automobile denied groups like Hendrick the clear benefit that they had constructed up because the Gen-6 was launched in 2013, offering a complete reset for the game.
Nevertheless it’s not like he is struggling as of late both. Larson gained three races in 2022, 4 in 2023, and a series-leading six in 2024. And his Homestead victory final weekend was his first of the 2025 season after simply six races.
“I believe simply being with a very good group and with the ability to adapt to new issues is one thing you attempt to delight your self on,” continued Larson. “I believe that is an space the place the 5 group actually excels and the 24 [Byron] as nicely. I believe we in all probability share or are high two in most Subsequent Gen wins. Younger, adaptable drivers and groups.
“Yeah, they’re troublesome automobiles to drive, although. You need to run actually arduous, and I believe that in all probability advantages a man like myself.”
Images from Homestead-Miami – Race
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