Kyle Larson has firmly established himself as a force to be reckoned with in NASCAR, now boasting the impressive title of two-time Cup Series champion. Yet, as he gears up for the 2026 season, don’t expect a theatrical display of emotion from the Hendrick Motorsports ace. Larson’s demeanor is as cool as ever, even with the prestigious “2X” champion patch now adorning his fire suit.
The moment Larson clinched his second championship came during a nail-biting finale at Phoenix Raceway, where he secured a third-place finish. Over the course of the season, Larson demonstrated his prowess behind the wheel, racking up three victories, 15 top-five finishes, and an astounding 22 top-10 finishes, all while leading a remarkable 1,106 laps out of 36 races. For a competitor like Larson, who prefers his achievements to resonate through performance rather than exuberance, the title doesn’t seem to have shifted his focus.
In an interview with NASCAR journalist Bob Pockrass, Larson reflected on the significance of the updated championship patch. “Just yesterday. We just got this suit like two days ago when I did like my photo shoots and stuff for after the season, we had had suits and we didn’t have the correct patch on it yet. So yeah, this is the first one I’ve seen with the 2X on it. Yeah, it’s going to be there. So, it’s not like a big deal to me. But yeah, I don’t know. It’s cool.” This understated reaction is emblematic of Larson’s approach to racing; accolades do not sidetrack his relentless pursuit of success.
Looking ahead, Larson is not resting on his laurels but is strategically positioning himself for the upcoming challenges under NASCAR’s revamped “The Chase” championship format, which will introduce an intense 10-race postseason in 2026. The stakes are high, and Larson is already setting his sights on maintaining the momentum that has propelled him to the top.
In addition to his Cup Series commitments, Larson is diversifying his racing portfolio by participating in three events within the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series in 2026. He is set to take the wheel of the #88 JR Motorsports Chevrolet, with his first race scheduled at Las Vegas Motor Speedway on March 14. Larson will also make appearances at Bristol Motor Speedway on April 11 and Texas Motor Speedway on May 2.
But Larson is not the only talent to watch; his fellow Hendrick Motorsports teammates will also take turns in the #88 car this season. William Byron is slated for three races, while Chase Elliott and Alex Bowman are preparing for two starts each. The #88 seat will also feature Rajah Caruth, who will race in 16 regular events and all seven playoff races, showcasing the depth of talent within the HMS lineup.
Fans can catch Larson and his fellow drivers as the 2026 NASCAR Cup Series kicks off on February 1 at the historic Bowman Gray Stadium. With the excitement building and the competition heating up, all eyes will be on Larson as he attempts to defend his championship in what promises to be an electrifying season.
