During the 2017 NASCAR season, Tony Stewart openly expressed strong admiration for Kyle Larson, even though Larson had never driven for Stewart-Haas Racing (SHR). As Larson secured his second victory of the year at Michigan and took the lead in points, many fans wondered why the rising star wasn’t part of SHR. Stewart, retired for two years at the time, made his feelings clear:
“I would love to have him. You need to ask him that question”
The public comments sparked speculation and demonstrated a deep professional respect between two standout figures in racing. Larson, aged 24, was in his fourth full-time Cup Series season with Chip Ganassi Racing and was emerging as a top-tier driver. Meanwhile, Stewart, a three-time Cup champion and co-owner of SHR, had long admired Larson’s adaptability behind the wheel.
“He’s a friend of mine. And even if he doesn’t drive for me, I care and am happy for him.”
Stewart’s remarks went beyond casual praise; he indicated that if circumstances changed, SHR would welcome Larson to their team.
A near SH Racing signing derailed by off-track controversy
The chance for Larson to join Stewart-Haas Racing came close in 2020, when Larson was suspended indefinitely from NASCAR after using a racial slur during an iRacing session. Ganassi Racing released Larson soon after, and Stewart pushed to bring him onto SHR, intending to place Larson in the No. 14 car as Clint Bowyer approached retirement. However, the move was blocked by Ford, SHR’s manufacturer partner, due to concerns over public perception.
With Ford’s resistance, Stewart-Haas Racing instead promoted Chase Briscoe to the No. 14 seat. Meanwhile, Hendrick Motorsports seized the opportunity, filling their open spot left by Jimmie Johnson’s departure. Hendrick secured internal sponsorship through HendrickCars.com, enabling Larson’s return to the Cup Series in 2021. Larson capitalized on this chance, winning ten races that year and capturing his first Cup championship.
Tony Stewart defends Larson amid debate over his versatility and talent
In 2024, Kyle Larson stirred discussion with comments about his versatility compared to Formula 1 champion Max Verstappen. Larson, who has experience in sprint cars, midgets, dirt late models, IndyCar, and NASCAR, clarified that he was highlighting his comfort across different motorsport disciplines rather than claiming to be the greatest driver overall. Fans debated the remarks, but Tony Stewart stood firmly by Larson’s side. Speaking to fellow NASCAR driver Kevin Harvick, Stewart said:
“I know it’s a huge debate… Obviously I’m a huge Kyle Larson fan. Love what he does in a Sprint car. I watched him run his first dirt late model races, and he’s had success there now, going to Indy… I think Kyle Larson, you can take him and drop him in any race car, and he’s going to be up to speed pretty quick, and he’ll figure it out pretty quick… He’s a guy that’s a once-in-a-lifetime type guy. It seems like every generation has that one guy that stands out above the rest, and Kyle’s that guy.”
Stewart further reflected on comparisons across motorsport, mentioning former Formula 1 drivers Juan Pablo Montoya and Kevin Magnussen, who successfully transitioned to dirt racing. However, Stewart emphasized that very few have matched Larson’s innate ability to adapt swiftly and find rhythm in various vehicles.
The lasting bond between Stewart and Larson despite different career paths
Although Kyle Larson never raced for Stewart-Haas Racing, the mutual respect between him and Tony Stewart has endured through the years. Stewart’s ongoing admiration highlights Larson’s rare talent and versatility, affirming his status as a generational driver. Larson’s journey—overcoming setbacks, switching teams, and ultimately earning a Cup title—reflects both his resilience and exceptional skill that Stewart has long recognized.
This continued recognition from a legendary driver and team owner like Tony Stewart underscores why Kyle Larson remains one of the most celebrated and capable racers in the sport today. Fans and insiders alike watch eagerly as Larson’s career progresses, knowing his abilities could influence NASCAR’s landscape for years to come.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Kyle Larson better than Verstappen?
A. Larson may not defeat Verstappen in Formula 1, but he is widely considered more adaptable than anyone worldwide. According to Bianchi, Larson stands out for his well-rounded achievements. He wins in many different kinds of racing cars.
Q. Asked about Larson’s claim on Thursday, he had just two coy words: Asked Max Verstappen for his response to Kyle Larson’s comments about being a better all-round driver – Max just smiled and said: \x26quot;That’s fine. Everyone thinks their own way, right?\x26quot; With a quick detour to another sport, let me put it this way.
A. What was Max Verstappen’s reaction to Kyle Larson?