Hendrick Motorsports’ new recruit Kyle Larson has hit the ground running for his new team. Taking to a Cup Series car in nearly a year, the 28-year-old admitted he had nothing but gratitude for the opportunity.

Instrumental in bringing Larson to the team was owner Mr. Rick Hendrick. The 71-year-old saw a certain fire of desire, passion, and work ethic that convinced him Larson was the right man to occupy his fourth car entry.

Speaking to the team’s website, Mr. Hendrick showered words of praise on the newcomer. In addition, he also touched upon how he sees the team performing overall in the 2021 season.

Kyle Larson is a racer and loved by fans, said Rick Hendrick

Mr. Hendrick stated, “Fans love him. He drives the wheels off the cars, whether it’s sprint cars or midgets. He is a racer.”

The premier organization now lies just aix Cup Series wins behind all-time record-holders Richard Petty Motorsports with 269. Undoubtedly, Larson has the skills and tools to contribute to that number and make Hendrick Motorsports the most accomplished team in NASCAR Cup Series history.

Mr. Hendrick continued, “If we can lead laps, win races, then the rest will come. We’re not in that dominant area where you can win 17 races in a year, and I don’t think anybody is anymore.”

Larson put in his first laps in a Hendrick Motorsports car during the week

Trending

Exclusive: Team Kicked out by NASCAR After a Driver “Snitched” On Them

April 24, 2024 02:22 AM EDT

Uncertain “Political Environment” Cause Kyle Busch and Richard Childress Racing to Take a Major Sponsorship Hit

April 18, 2024 05:43 AM EDT

NASCAR Rumor: Joe Gibbs Racing to Potentially Wipe Out This Low-Level Cup Series Team; Charter Movement Imminent

April 24, 2024 03:13 AM EDT

“Just Push Her”: Denny Hamlin Asks Tony Stewart’s Sensation To Move Hailie Deegan Out of His Way

April 23, 2024 06:34 AM EDT

“You’re Pissing Me Off” – Dale Earnhardt Jr Instantly Shuts Down Denny Hamlin’s Solution to Better Talladega

April 24, 2024 12:05 PM EDT

Get instantly notified of the hottest NASCAR stories via Google! Click on Follow Us and Tap the Blue Star.

Follow Us

Attending the first practice session, the Hendrick Motorsports No. 5 sported his black-and-green themed car out at Daytona for the first time. Tuning into a groove and building some pace, Larson secured a place in the Duel, courtesy of a 13th place finish in qualifying.

Naturally, due to his own rustiness and lack of familiarization with the team setup, he finished sixth in Duel 1, which earned him a starting place of 13th on the grid for the 2021 Daytona 500.

But the season is long and tough, and Larson will get enough races under his belt to create an impression. With a new chapter beginning in his racing career, he will hence look to give it his all and notch some success this season.

MORE – What is the Prize Money and Trophy Awarded to the NASCAR Daytona 500 Champion?