Rick Hendrick Secures Historic 15th Championship as Kyle Larson Triumphs
Rick Hendrick has achieved a milestone in the NASCAR Cup Series by securing his 15th championship as a car owner, with Kyle Larson’s unexpected victory marking a notable first for both. Larson’s victory came under dramatic circumstances during the season finale, where he snatched the championship from Denny Hamlin, who had led for most of the race.
“The most unexpected championship,” Hendrick remarked after the race. He had nearly conceded defeat when Hamlin maintained a three-second lead with just a few laps remaining. However, a late caution, triggered by William Byron’s blown tire, changed the race dynamics.
Larson’s team opted for a two-tire strategy during the caution, allowing him to gain critical track position that ultimately secured the championship. Hendrick, visibly animated throughout the tension-filled laps, admitted he struggled to keep pace with the rapid developments as the race progressed.
Denny Hamlin dominated the race, leading 208 laps and was on the verge of clinching his first championship. “You plan, you get here, you’re excited…and then you’re accepting the fact,” Hendrick noted, reflecting on the intense ebb and flow of the finale.
This victory marks Larson’s second Cup Series title, further solidifying Hendrick Motorsports’ reputation as the most successful team in Cup Series history, now with 320 victories. Notably, Larson also led all drivers in points throughout the season, confirming his status regardless of the final race outcome.
As Hendrick looks to the future, he expressed optimism about his team’s potential longevity in championship contention, asserting, “I’m excited about the future, and we’re just as hungry as we’ve ever been.” This victory comes 30 years after Hendrick’s first championship with Jeff Gordon, illustrating a legacy of excellence that continues to shape the sport.
