NASCAR Cup Series driver Kyle Larson, the 2021 Cup Series champion, recently shared his verdict on who deserves the title of NASCAR’s greatest of all time (GOAT). Speaking on the Field Day podcast, Larson firmly named seven-time champion Jimmie Johnson as the GOAT, highlighting Johnson’s extraordinary achievements in the sport. Larson, known for his versatility and success both on the NASCAR circuit and in sprint cars and midgets, acknowledged the challenge of surpassing Johnson’s record within the competitive landscape of modern NASCAR.
Understanding Larson’s Choice for NASCAR’s Top Driver
Larson emphasized the difficulty of winning championships in today’s NASCAR environment, where improvements in car technology, race formats, and driver skill levels have raised the sport’s overall competitiveness. He noted,
“I think the greatest of all time would be Jimmie Johnson,”
and added,
“So for what he did, went in five in a row and then another two in the modern era, was incredible.”
Over his 22-year career, Johnson secured seven Cup Series championships, tying him with legends Dale Earnhardt and Richard Petty for the most titles in NASCAR history.
Jimmie Johnson’s Lasting Impact on NASCAR History
Johnson’s record of seven championships, including an unprecedented five consecutive titles, stands out as a benchmark in the sport. His 83 Cup Series race wins rank him sixth on the all-time victories list, a testament to his consistent performance. Larson’s respect for Johnson reflects the widespread acknowledgment among drivers and fans that this record is highly unlikely to be surpassed anytime soon, given the series’ modern competitiveness.
Current Champions and NASCAR’s Future Landscape
Among current drivers, Joey Logano holds the closest streak to Johnson’s championship count, with three titles. However, he still trails far behind Johnson’s record, underscoring how dominant Johnson’s era was. As Larson’s own career progresses with Hendrick Motorsports, his remarks also highlight the immense challenge faced by today’s drivers striving to reach those historic heights.
Why Larson’s NASCAR GOAT Verdict Holds Weight
Kyle Larson’s opinion carries considerable authority given his own accomplishments, including 32 Cup Series race wins and his championship title. His broader experience across different racing disciplines also provides insight into the skill level required to excel in NASCAR. By naming Jimmie Johnson the GOAT, Larson reinforces the significance of sustained excellence and adaptability in securing lasting legacies within the sport.
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