Kyle Larson arrives at Iowa Speedway aiming to match Denny Hamlin’s outstanding record in Next Gen short track events. The Hendrick Motorsports driver trails Hamlin by a single top-two finish, setting the stage for a crucial battle at Sunday’s Iowa Corn 350.
Fresh off a near-win at Indianapolis, Larson is poised to challenge Hamlin’s mark of eight top-two finishes, highlighting the intense competition between these two top drivers in the 2025 season.
The Intense Rivalry Shaping NASCAR’s Next Gen Short Tracks
Denny Hamlin has demonstrated remarkable consistency with eight top-two finishes at short tracks since NASCAR’s Next Gen car debuted, narrowly edging Larson, who boasts seven top-two results at venues including Bristol, Martinsville, and Richmond. This rivalry underscores the competitive spirit defining the series.
Their contest is more than numbers. After the Food City 500 at Bristol this year, Hamlin praised Larson’s team and performance, saying,
“You’ve got to give that team their due and Kyle his due,”
followed by, “Just a dominant performance.” —Denny Hamlin, NASCAR Driver
At Bristol, Larson led 411 of 500 laps to claim his second victory in 2025, while Hamlin had already secured four straight top-five finishes on short tracks, emphasizing his unwavering presence in the championship hunt.
Despite Larson’s series-leading 14 top-10 finishes this season, Hamlin amassed 155 points through July, the highest in the field during a demanding stretch. Both drivers have split the last 14 short track wins evenly, making the upcoming race critical for momentum.
Iowa Speedway Brings High Stakes for Larson’s Comeback Effort
Larson’s 2024 Iowa debut remains a vivid memory. After taking pole position at 136.458 mph and leading 80 laps, a late wreck dropped him to 34th place. Reflecting after Indianapolis, Larson said,
“We were quick at Iowa last year,”
and added,
“I’m sure all teams have gotten their stuff better.”
—Kyle Larson, NASCAR Driver
This year, mastering the repaved corners and managing tire wear will be key to Larson’s success. To tie Hamlin’s record for most top-two finishes on short tracks, Larson must finish at least second on Sunday.
Hamlin, meanwhile, looks to bounce back from his own Iowa setback in 2024. His Toyota excels on tracks requiring precise braking and throttle control. With 15 career short track victories and 104 points this season on similar ovals, Hamlin remains a formidable contender.
Christopher Bell Adds an Unpredictable Element to the Race
Christopher Bell is expected to be a strong competitor, with projections favoring him to capitalize on Larson and Hamlin’s fierce duel. Bell’s impressive fourth-place finish at Iowa last year, despite starting last in a backup car, demonstrates his skill at this track.
Larson, focused on his own performance, emphasized the importance of strategy and execution, stating,
“You’ve just got to be on your game and be smart and try to execute every lap. That’s my goal.”
—Kyle Larson, NASCAR Driver
The Iowa Corn 350 will be decisive for Larson’s championship ambitions. A victory would narrow the gap in the 2025 regular-season title race and elevate Larson to share the top spot alongside Hamlin in Next Gen short track achievements.